Description
This Homemade Garlic Bread recipe features a crispy French or Italian bread loaded with a rich garlic butter spread, fresh parsley, and an optional cheesy topping. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it makes a classic and easy side dish that elevates any Italian-American meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread, sliced in half lengthwise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese or shredded mozzarella
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the garlic bread.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed and fragrant.
- Spread Butter Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the buttered bread halves for a cheesy finish.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the bread, cut side up, on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the bread is warmed through and edges turn golden brown.
- Broil for Crispiness (Optional): For an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Slice and Serve: Remove from oven, slice into pieces, and serve warm to enjoy the fresh, buttery garlic flavors.
Notes
- Prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and refrigerate for up to one week to save time.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for an optional spicy kick.
- Use fresh bread for best texture and toasting results.
