There’s something truly special about homemade garlic bread, isn’t there? It reminds me of family gatherings, casual dinners, and lazy weekends when the house is filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and melted butter. It’s easy, comforting, and downright delicious. You know, the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug as you pull it out of the oven!
Whenever I’d host a little get-together, I’d whip up a batch of garlic bread to complement whatever meal I was serving. It’s such a versatile side! You can serve it with pasta, soups, or just enjoy it as a snack while you’re catching up with your loved ones. And the best part? It takes hardly any time at all! With just a few ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, you’ll have a delightful dish that everyone will rave about.
This recipe is one of my go-to favorites, and it never fails to impress. Whether it’s for a casual dinner with the kids or a fun night in with friends, garlic bread is always a hit. Plus, there’s something quite satisfying about making something so simple, yet so flavorful. So, if you’re ready to get your hands a little buttery, let’s dive into how to make this scrumptious garlic bread!
How to Make Garlic Bread
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Ingredients
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 baguette, cut into thick 1.5 cm or 1/2” slices
- 1 tbsp minced fresh garlic
- 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
- 1 tsp salt
- 1.5 cups (150 g) grated cheese (optional)
Directions
Start by preheating your oven’s broiler. This will allow the top of the garlic bread to get perfectly crispy and golden.
Next, melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl, warming it in short bursts until it’s completely liquid—this usually takes about 20 seconds.
Once the butter has melted, mix in the minced garlic, parsley, and salt until everything is smoothly blended together.
Now, take each slice of baguette and spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture on one side.
If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle some grated cheese on top of each slice for an extra layer of flavor.
Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet in a single layer—using two sheets if needed to avoid overlap—and broil for 2-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on it; you want it nicely browned, not burnt!
Once it’s toasty and bubbling, take it out of the oven, and serve while it’s hot. You’ll want to dive in right away!
Storing Suggestion
To store leftover garlic bread, wrap it in foil or parchment paper and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you have some left, this will keep it from drying out for a day or two.
Cooking Tips
For a flavor twist, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or mixing in some Italian seasoning with the garlic butter. You can also use different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique taste.
Serving Suggestions
This garlic bread pairs wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, or you can serve it alongside a big bowl of pasta. A fresh side salad and a chilled glass of white wine make for a perfect meal setting!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of butter, olive oil works great as a substitute. You can also replace the fresh garlic with garlic powder; just use about one teaspoon for every tablespoon of fresh garlic.
Seasonal Variations
During the summer, consider adding fresh tomatoes and basil for a Caprese-style garlic bread. In the fall, a sprinkle of pumpkin spice could give it a seasonal twist!
Allergen Information
This recipe contains dairy due to the butter and cheese. If you need a dairy-free version, swap the butter for a dairy-free spread and the cheese for a plant-based alternative.
FAQ
Can I use regular bread instead of a baguette?
Absolutely! Any kind of bread will work. Just try to choose a crusty bread that can hold up to the toppings. Baguettes, ciabatta, or even sourdough are great choices!
Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread slices, then wrap them in foil and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, simply broil them directly from the fridge.
How do I reheat leftover garlic bread?
The best way to reheat garlic bread is to wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven for about 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This will keep the bread from drying out while reheating.
Can I freeze garlic bread?
Yes! Garlic bread freezes well. After making it, you can wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze it. Just pop it back in the oven to reheat when you are ready to enjoy it.
What type of cheese works best for garlic bread?
Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar are all excellent choices. You can even mix different types for a more complex flavor. Just make sure it’s grated for easy melting on top.
How long should I broil the garlic bread?
You should broil the bread for about 2-5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning, as ovens can vary. You want the top to be bubbling and golden brown!
Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp butter, unsalted
- 1 baguette sliced into thick 1.5 cm or 1/2” pieces
- 1 tbsp garlic minced fresh
- 1.5 cups (150 g) cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven's broiler.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, soften the butter in 10-second bursts until melted, approximately 20 seconds.
- Stir in minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt until well combined.
- Spread the butter blend on one side of each bread slice.
- If desired, sprinkle grated cheese over each slice.
- Arrange bread on a baking sheet (use two sheets if necessary to avoid overlapping). Broil for 2-5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
