This easy garlic bread loaf is a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. Made with a simple mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs, it delivers a flavorful and aromatic experience in every bite.
The recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced cooks.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Bread Loaf
Garlic bread is a beloved classic that complements a variety of dishes, from pasta to salads. The key to a great garlic bread loaf lies in the balance of flavors and textures.
Imagine a loaf that is golden and crispy on the outside, with a soft and fluffy interior. This delightful combination is achieved through a simple yet effective preparation process.
Using a loaf of French or Italian bread as the base, the magic begins with a generous spread of garlic butter. This mixture, infused with minced garlic and fresh parsley, not only enhances the flavor but also creates an inviting aroma as it bakes.
The preparation is quick, taking about 15 minutes, followed by a baking time of around 25 minutes. The result is a warm, inviting loaf that serves perfectly as a side dish for any meal.
Ingredients for Flavorful Garlic Butter
The ingredients for this garlic bread loaf are straightforward and easy to find.
Start with unsalted butter, which provides a creamy base for the garlic and herbs. Fresh garlic is essential for that bold flavor, while chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
Seasoning is key; a pinch of salt and black pepper enhances the overall taste, while optional dried oregano and grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the flavor profile even further.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a garlic butter that transforms a basic loaf of bread into a mouthwatering side dish.
Step-by-Step Preparation
To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the garlic bread bakes evenly and achieves that perfect golden crust.
Next, prepare the garlic butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings in a bowl.
Once the mixture is ready, slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread, making sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.
Baking to Perfection
Place the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake in the preheated oven.
Keep an eye on the bread as it bakes, aiming for a cooking time of 20-25 minutes. The edges should turn golden and crispy, while the interior remains soft and fluffy.
If you’re looking to add a cheesy touch, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last five minutes of baking. This creates a deliciously cheesy crust that pairs beautifully with the garlic flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, let the garlic bread cool slightly before slicing it into individual pieces.
This garlic bread loaf is best served warm, making it a perfect accompaniment to a cozy meal.
Consider pairing it with a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, adding an extra layer of flavor that complements the garlic.
Nutrition and Serving Size
This garlic bread loaf serves approximately eight slices, making it an ideal side dish for gatherings or family dinners.
Each slice contains around 180 calories, with 16 grams of fat and 2 grams of protein.
With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, this garlic bread is sure to be a hit at any table. Enjoy the warm, inviting aroma and the satisfying crunch with every bite!
Quick and Simple Garlic Bread Loaf
This garlic bread loaf features a soft and fluffy interior with a crispy, buttery crust. The preparation takes about 15 minutes, and the baking time is around 25 minutes, yielding a delightful loaf that serves 8.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix until well combined.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise to create two halves.
- Spread the Mixture: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.
- Bake: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Optional Cheese Topping: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking for added flavor.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 16g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 10g