Recipe
There’s nothing quite like the smell of garlic bread wafting through the kitchen—warm, buttery, and packed with that irresistible garlicky punch. This isn’t just any garlic bread; it’s the kind that disappears the second it hits the table, with a golden, crispy crust giving way to a soft, garlic-infused center.
The secret? Fresh garlic (none of that powdered stuff) and a generous slather of herb butter that seeps into every nook and cranny. I’ve made this recipe more times than I can count, and trust me, once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought.
Whether it’s for pasta night, a party appetizer, or just because you deserve something delicious, this garlic bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Let’s get toasting!
Ingredients
Start with the freshest ingredients to make your garlic bread unforgettable—quality bread, rich butter, and vibrant garlic are the heroes here. For the best results, use a crusty loaf that crisps beautifully and absorbs flavors without turning soggy. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable—skip the pre-minced jars for maximum punch. Substitutions are welcome where needed, but stick to these essentials for classic garlic bread perfection.
- Bread: 1 loaf of French baguette or Italian bread (a day-old loaf works great for extra crispness).
- Butter: 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (salted butter works if you adjust the salt in the recipe).
- Garlic: 4-6 fresh garlic cloves, finely minced (this is the star—don’t skimp!).
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (adds richness and depth).
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup freshly grated (pre-grated lacks flavor—trust me!).
- Parsley: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (dried works, but fresh is 10x better).
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste).
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground (optional but recommended).
Extras for Elevation: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or swap parsley with fresh basil for a twist. A sprinkle of mozzarella or provolone cheese takes it to next-level cheesy goodness.
How to Make the Best Authentic Garlic Bread Recipe
Bake the Bread: Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the butter has melted into the bread.
Broil for Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Cool and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor.
Pro Tips:
- Use unsalted butter to control the sodium level.
- Fresh garlic offers a stronger flavor than pre-minced options.
- For added richness, mix in a teaspoon of olive oil with the butter.
Watch-Out Warnings:
- Avoid over-baking to prevent the bread from becoming too dry.
- Don’t skip the broiling step—it adds that perfect crunch!
- Use a sharp knife to slice the bread evenly and prevent tearing.
Nutrition
Garlic bread is a flavorful side dish often enjoyed with pasta or soups. It combines bread, butter, garlic, and herbs for a delicious treat.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 9g |
| Saturated Fat | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Sodium | 270mg |
| Total Carbs | 19g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugars | 1g |
| Protein | 4g |
Chef Tips
While making garlic bread, I always recommend using fresh garlic instead of pre-minced, as it gives a more vibrant flavor. Let the butter soften to room temperature for easy mixing.
Toast the bread lightly before adding the garlic butter to prevent sogginess. Finish with a sprinkle of parsley for freshness. Don’t overbake—just until golden.
These small steps make a big difference in flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze Homemade Garlic Bread?
Yes, I freeze homemade garlic bread all the time. Just wrap it tightly in foil or plastic, then pop it in a freezer bag. It keeps for months, and I reheat it straight from frozen—tastes fresh!
How Long Does Homemade Garlic Bread Stay Fresh?
I’d say homemade garlic bread stays fresh for about 1-2 days if stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. If refrigerated, it’ll last up to 5 days, though it might lose some crispness.
Can I Use Gluten-Free Bread for This Recipe?
Yes, I can use gluten-free bread for this recipe—it works just as well. I’ll just keep an eye on it while it toasts since gluten-free bread tends to crisp up faster than regular bread.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Garlic Bread?
I’d reheat garlic bread by wrapping it in foil and placing it in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. If I want it crispier, I’ll unwrap it for the last 2-3 minutes to let it toast.
Can I Substitute Fresh Garlic With Garlic Powder?
Yes, you can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. I’d use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of fresh garlic called for. It’s less intense, so I’d adjust to taste and mix it into the butter.
