Garlic Bread

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Few things can match the comforting aroma of freshly baked garlic bread wafting through the kitchen. I’ve made countless versions of garlic bread over the years, but this garlic bread recipe stands out every single time. It’s golden, crisp on the outside, soft and buttery inside, and loaded with the perfect balance of garlic and herbs. It’s the kind of side that often steals the show from the main dish!

What I love about this recipe is how incredibly simple it is to throw together, yet it always delivers restaurant-quality flavor. Whether you’re serving it with a hearty bowl of pasta, soup, or just snacking on it straight from the oven, this garlic bread has the power to satisfy all cravings.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Bread

This garlic bread is a blend of simplicity and indulgence. With just a few pantry staples, you’ll transform an ordinary loaf into something magical. The butter melts right into the bread, carrying that roasted garlic flavor into every bite. The top becomes crisp and golden while the inside stays fluffy and warm. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

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What Kind of Bread Should I Use?

You’ll want a loaf that’s sturdy enough to hold the buttery garlic spread without falling apart. I personally love using a French baguette or Italian bread, but sourdough or ciabatta can also add a wonderful depth of flavor. Make sure the bread has a soft interior and a crusty exterior for the best texture.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used in a pinch—just adjust to taste. For a dairy-free option, use vegan butter or olive oil. Want to add a cheesy twist? Sprinkle grated parmesan or mozzarella over the top before baking. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary if you prefer something more aromatic.

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Ingredients for this Garlic Bread

• Bread (French or Italian loaf): This is the base of the garlic bread. Choose a loaf with a soft inside and a crusty outside to get the best texture contrast after baking.
• Unsalted butter: It creates that creamy, rich base for the garlic mixture and melts beautifully into the bread.
• Fresh garlic: The star ingredient. Minced garlic infuses bold flavor and gives garlic bread its signature aroma.
• Fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of green. It balances out the richness of the butter and garlic.
• Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors and keeps the butter mixture from tasting flat.
• Olive oil (optional): For a richer flavor and a slightly crispier finish, a drizzle of olive oil works wonders.
• Parmesan cheese (optional): For a cheesy variation, parmesan adds a salty, umami depth.

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Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the bread gets crisp without drying out.

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Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything together until well blended. If you’re adding cheese, fold in grated parmesan at this stage.

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Step 3: Slice the Bread

Cut your loaf in half horizontally. If it’s especially large, you can cut it into smaller pieces or slices for individual servings. Make sure the cuts are even to ensure uniform baking.

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Step 4: Spread the Garlic Mixture

Use a spoon or spatula to spread the garlic butter generously over the cut sides of the bread. Don’t be shy—every inch should be covered. A drizzle of olive oil can be added here for extra richness.

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Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the bread halves, cut side up, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10–12 minutes until the bread is golden and the edges are crisp. For a crispier top, broil on high for 1–2 extra minutes, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

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Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 1–2 minutes. Slice into individual servings and serve warm. The result: crisp edges, a buttery center, and a deeply satisfying garlic punch.

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How Long to Prepare the Garlic Bread

Prep Time: Most of the preparation is quick—about 10 minutes. That includes softening the butter, chopping parsley, and mincing garlic. If your butter is already soft, it’s even faster.

Cook Time: The baking takes around 10–12 minutes. If you choose to broil the bread for extra crispness, add another 1–2 minutes. So in total, from start to finish, expect to have your garlic bread ready in under 25 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Bread

• Use room temperature butter so it mixes easily with the garlic and herbs.
• Mince garlic finely or even mash it for smoother texture and better flavor distribution.
• Don’t skimp on the garlic! But balance it with butter and salt to avoid overpowering.
• Toast the bread lightly before adding the garlic butter if you like extra crunch.
• Use fresh parsley instead of dried—its brightness balances the richness beautifully.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Burning the garlic: Garlic burns quickly under high heat, especially during broiling. Watch carefully.
• Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t spread evenly and can tear the bread.
• Overbaking: It dries out the bread. Stick to the recommended time and only broil briefly if needed.
• Choosing the wrong bread: Soft sandwich loaves get soggy. Always use crusty bread like French or Italian loaves.
• Uneven spreading: Make sure to coat the entire surface so every bite is flavorful.

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What to Serve With Garlic Bread?

1. Spaghetti Bolognese

A hearty pasta dish with rich meat sauce is the ultimate partner for garlic bread.

2. Creamy Tomato Soup

Dip that golden slice right into a warm, tangy bowl of tomato soup.

3. Caesar Salad

Crunchy, garlicky bread pairs wonderfully with a fresh and zesty Caesar salad.

4. Grilled Chicken or Steak

Use garlic bread as a side to soak up those savory juices.

5. Baked Ziti or Lasagna

Cheesy pasta bakes and garlic bread are always better together.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: If you have leftovers, wrap them in foil and store at room temperature for up to 1 day. Reheat in the oven to restore crispness.

Refrigerator: Not ideal, as the bread can become tough. But if needed, store wrapped for up to 3 days and reheat in a toaster oven.

Freezer: Garlic bread freezes well! Wrap tightly in foil and place in a zip-top bag. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen at 350°F (177°C) for 10–15 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (1 slice, approximate):

• Calories: 180
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 220mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best type of garlic to use?

Fresh garlic cloves give the most intense flavor. You can use pre-minced garlic, but it won’t be quite as bold.

Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the bread with garlic butter and refrigerate until ready to bake, up to 24 hours in advance.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, though fresh is preferred. Use about 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder per clove for substitution.

How do I reheat leftover garlic bread?

Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes. Avoid the microwave—it softens the bread.

Is garlic bread vegan?

Not typically, but it can be made vegan using plant-based butter and skipping the cheese.

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Conclusion

Garlic Bread is one of those humble yet irresistible side dishes that elevates any meal. Whether you’re making it for a special dinner or just to satisfy a craving, this recipe guarantees golden edges, melty garlic butter, and loads of flavor in every bite. Once you try making it at home, you’ll never want the store-bought version again.

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