Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy Garlic Bread is a quick, crowd-pleasing side that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. Featuring crusty bread slathered with a buttery garlic and herb spread, then toasted to golden perfection, it’s crisp on the outside, soft inside, and loaded with rich, garlicky flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have an irresistible homemade favorite ready in minutes.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
French bread or Italian breadunsalted butter (softened)garlic (minced or grated)parsley (fresh or dried)saltoptional: grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella, or red pepper flakes
directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
In a bowl, mix softened butter with garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt.
Spread the garlic butter evenly over each half of the bread.
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, until edges are golden and crispy.
For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch closely.
Slice and serve warm.
Servings and timing
Serves 6–8.Preparation time: 5 minutesBaking time: 10–12 minutesTotal time: 15–17 minutes
Variations
Add Parmesan or shredded mozzarella on top before baking.
Use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Swap parsley for basil or oregano for a twist.
Make it spicy with a pinch of red pepper flakes.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in foil or an airtight container for up to 2 days.Reheat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.Can be frozen—wrap in foil and freeze up to 1 month, then bake from frozen.
FAQs
Can I use pre-minced garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
What bread works best?
French or Italian loaves are ideal for texture and flavor.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Can I toast it in a pan?
Yes, toast buttered slices in a skillet over medium heat until golden.
Is garlic bread vegetarian?
Yes, as long as no cheese with animal rennet is used.
Conclusion
Easy Garlic Bread is a fast, flavorful side that elevates any meal with its buttery, garlicky goodness. Whether you’re serving spaghetti or soup, this classic favorite delivers warm, toasty comfort in every bite.
PrintEasy Garlic Bread
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Category: Easy Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Easy Garlic Bread is a quick and delicious side dish made with crusty bread slathered in a flavorful garlic butter and baked until golden and fragrant—perfect with pasta, soups, or salads.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the loaf in half lengthwise.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt until well combined.
- Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if using.
- Place bread halves on a baking sheet, buttered side up.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the bread is golden and edges are crisp. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Use garlic powder for a milder flavor if desired.
- For cheesy garlic bread, add shredded mozzarella before baking.
- Can be made ahead and frozen—just wrap tightly and bake when needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
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