Garlic Bread
This classic garlic bread recipe features crispy, buttery bread infused with fragrant garlic and fresh herbs. Easy to prepare and customizable, it makes a versatile, flavorful side perfect for pastas, soups, salads, or as a comforting snack. Achieve the ideal crisp exterior with a soft, buttery inside that transforms any meal into a memorable experience.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 slices 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free option (using gluten-free bread)
Bread
- 1 fresh baguette, Italian loaf, or sourdough (about 12 inches)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4–5 fresh garlic cloves, minced or pressed
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (a pinch)
Optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (for cheesy variation)
- Additional herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or basil (1 teaspoon each, optional)
- Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (to taste, optional for spicy kick)
- Plant-based margarine (as a substitute for butter for vegan version)
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: Soften the unsalted butter and thoroughly mix it with minced fresh garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt until smooth and evenly blended.
- Slice the Bread: Cut your chosen bread loaf into thick, even slices about 1 to 1.5 inches thick to ensure it holds the garlic butter well and maintains structure.
- Spread the Garlic Mixture: Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture on each slice, covering all surfaces. For extra crispness and subtle fruitiness, drizzle a little olive oil on top if desired.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy. For a meltier, bubbly top, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve Warm: Remove the garlic bread from the oven and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture as a side or snack.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for a sharper, more vibrant flavor.
- Choose dense, crusty bread like baguette or sourdough to prevent sogginess.
- Preheat the oven fully before baking to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
- Watch carefully during baking to avoid overbaking and drying out the bread.
- Double the garlic butter mixture if you prefer extra garlicky bread.
- To make vegan garlic bread, substitute butter with plant-based margarine and skip cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0.2g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: garlic bread, crispy garlic bread, easy garlic bread recipe, buttery garlic bread, herb garlic bread, cheesy garlic bread, vegan garlic bread, gluten-free garlic bread