The Best Garlic Bread

The Best Garlic Bread is made with crusty bread slathered in a rich, buttery garlic spread and baked until golden and fragrant. With crispy edges and a soft, buttery center, this easy garlic bread pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or as a delicious appetizer.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make in under 20 minutes
• Irresistibly crispy, buttery, and garlicky
• Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
• Perfect for serving with Italian dishes or as a snack
• Customizable with cheese, herbs, or spices

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tablespoon garlic paste)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for cheesy garlic bread)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Prepare the Bread:
   • Slice the bread in half lengthwise. Place the bread cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
   • In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Spread on the Bread:
   • Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.
5. Bake:
   • Bake for 8-10 minutes until the bread is warm and slightly crisp around the edges.
6. Optional Cheesy Topping:
   • For cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the bread.
   • Return to the oven and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Let the garlic bread cool slightly, then slice and serve warm. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add mozzarella, provolone, or a mix of Italian cheeses before baking.
• Herb Garlic Bread: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil to the garlic butter mixture.
• Spicy Garlic Bread: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Garlic Bread Sticks: Use a baguette or breadsticks instead of a large loaf and prepare them the same way.
• Air Fryer Garlic Bread: Cook in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until golden.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftover garlic bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the prepared but unbaked garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes. For crispy bread, avoid the microwave.

FAQs

1. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor. Use 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder as a substitute for each clove.

2. What type of bread is best for garlic bread?

French bread, Italian bread, or a soft baguette are ideal because they get crispy on the outside while remaining soft inside.

3. How do I make the bread extra crispy?

Broil the bread for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.

4. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid oversalting.

5. Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the bread with garlic butter, wrap it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

6. Can I add more cheese to make it extra cheesy?

Absolutely! Mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the butter mixture or add extra cheese on top.

7. Can I use an air fryer to make garlic bread?

Yes, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until the bread is golden and crispy.

8. How do I make garlic bread without an oven?

You can cook garlic bread in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat until golden and crispy.

9. Can I use pre-made garlic butter?

Yes, store-bought garlic butter is a convenient shortcut. You can enhance it with extra garlic, cheese, or herbs if desired.

10. What can I serve with garlic bread?

Garlic bread pairs well with pasta, soups, salads, or as a side to grilled meats and vegetables.

Conclusion

The Best Garlic Bread is a simple yet delicious side dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion. With its perfect blend of buttery garlic spread, crispy bread, and optional cheesy goodness, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Whether served alongside pasta, soup, or as a party appetizer, this garlic bread will be a hit every time!

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