Simple Classic Garlic Bread

January 26, 2025

Get ready for the garlicky goodness you crave! This Simple Classic Garlic Bread is your ticket to buttery, golden perfection. It's easy, quick, and pairs with just about anything! Let’s turn your kitchen into a bakery—you’ll be hooked on this crispy, fragrant favorite in no time.

4.5 out of 5 (6 ratings)

Is there anything more comforting than the smell of warm, buttery garlic bread wafting through your kitchen? I dare say, probably not! This Simple Classic Garlic Bread is the ultimate sidekick to just about any meal—whether it’s a cozy bowl of pasta, a hearty soup, or a fresh salad. But honestly, it’s so good, you might find yourself nibbling away on it as the main event! I like to imagine I’m in a tiny Italian trattoria every time I make this recipe, with its golden crust and fragrant aroma swooning everyone around the table. So tie on your apron, because we’re about to embark on a garlicky adventure that’ll make your taste buds sing!

What makes this garlic bread so special, you ask? It’s all about the balance of flavors and textures. The bread should be crusty on the outside yet soft and pillowy on the inside—that’s how you achieve that perfect crunch with a tender bite. Then comes the star of the show: the garlic! You’ll combine minced fresh garlic with melted butter, a drizzle of olive oil for depth, and a sprinkle of parsley for that herby kick. I also like to sneak in a pinch of grated Parmesan for a subtle savory twist (because, why not?). This recipe is classic yet customizable, and it’s oh-so-satisfying every single time.

Now, let me share a couple of tips to make your garlic bread the best it can be. First, use a good-quality, rustic loaf like a baguette or ciabatta. These breads have the perfect texture for soaking up all that flavorful buttery goodness. Next, don’t skimp on the garlic, but make sure to finely chop or grate it so the flavor melds beautifully with the butter—it’s the key to avoiding any harsh, raw garlic taste. Lastly, for an extra layer of crispiness, pop the bread under the broiler for just a minute or two at the end. Trust me, it’s a game-changer that’ll have you gazing lovingly at your golden, toasty masterpiece.

The best part of this recipe? It’s versatile! Feel free to jazz it up by sprinkling in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, adding a touch of lemon zest for brightness, or even spreading a layer of pesto before diving into the garlic-butter slather. Serve it alongside your favorite Italian dish, or cut it into bite-sized pieces for a party-ready appetizer. Try it once, and this Simple Classic Garlic Bread will undoubtedly become your go-to for any occasion. What are you waiting for? Go ahead and turn your kitchen into a bakery of garlicky dreams—I promise, your future self will thank you.

Keywords: easy homemade garlic bread, classic garlic bread recipe, buttered garlic bread side dish, best crispy garlic bread, how to make garlic bread, quick garlic bread for pasta, simple garlic bread tutorial

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

Italian

Ingredients

•1 loaf French bread or Italian bread, sliced in half lengthwise
•1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
•3 cloves garlic, minced
•2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
•1/4 teaspoon salt
•1/4 teaspoon black pepper
•1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2
In a medium bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
3
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly across the cut sides of the bread halves.
4
If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the buttered bread.
5
Place the bread halves on a baking sheet with the buttered side facing up.
6
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the butter has melted into the bread.
7
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories

200 calories per serving

Protein

Carbs

18g

Fat

12g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

A: Yes, you can use salted butter, but you may want to omit or reduce the added salt in the recipe to prevent the garlic bread from becoming too salty. Taste the butter mixture before spreading it on the bread to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Q: Can I substitute dried parsley for fresh parsley?

A: Yes, you can substitute dried parsley if fresh parsley is not available. Use about 2 teaspoons of dried parsley since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. Mix it well into the butter mixture to evenly distribute the flavor.

Q: How do I prevent the garlic from burning during baking?

A: Make sure the garlic is finely minced and well mixed into the butter. Since the butter acts as a barrier, it helps protect the garlic from direct heat. Baking the bread at 400°F for the recommended time should prevent burning, but keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure the edges turn golden, not brown.

Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?

A: Yes, you can make a dairy-free or vegan version by replacing the butter with a plant-based butter or margarine. If you'd like to include the Parmesan cheese flavor, use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar savory taste.

Q: What is the best way to store leftover garlic bread?

A: Store leftover garlic bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil. Keep it at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and place it in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze garlic bread for later use?

A: Yes, you can freeze garlic bread. Assemble the bread with the garlic butter mixture and Parmesan cheese, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, remove the wrapping and bake directly from frozen at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and heated through.

Q: Are there any variations of this recipe I can try?

A: Absolutely! For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture for a spicy kick. Alternatively, mix some Italian seasoning into the butter for a herbaceous twist. For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses on top before baking. Serve the garlic bread alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads for a complete meal.

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