This simple garlic bread recipe uses sliced bread for a quick and delicious side dish. Perfect for pairing with pasta, soups, or salads, it brings a delightful garlic flavor to your meal.
With just a few ingredients, you can create a crispy, buttery treat that everyone will love. Customize it with herbs or cheese to enhance the flavor.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a beloved side dish that complements many meals, especially pasta and soups. Its crispy texture and rich flavor make it a favorite among many.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch of this delightful treat in no time. The combination of butter, garlic, and herbs creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes.
Using sliced bread as a base allows for quick preparation, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The result is a golden, crispy delight that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients for Garlic Bread Bliss
To make this garlic bread, you’ll need a handful of ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
Start with slices of your favorite bread, whether it’s French, Italian, or something else. The choice of bread can influence the final taste and texture, so select one that you love.
You’ll also need unsalted butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and a few seasonings. For those who enjoy an extra layer of flavor, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese. This optional ingredient enhances the richness and adds a delightful cheesy note.
Preparation Steps
The preparation of garlic bread is straightforward and quick.
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, mix softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and seasonings in a bowl. This mixture is the heart of your garlic bread, providing the essential flavor.
Once combined, spread the garlic butter evenly over each slice of bread. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it on top before baking. This step adds a deliciously crispy layer that many find irresistible.
Baking to Perfection
Place the prepared slices on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven.
Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and crispy. The aroma wafting from the oven will be hard to resist!
Once baked, allow the garlic bread to cool slightly before serving. This brief wait ensures that the bread retains its crispness while making it easier to handle.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes.
Serve it alongside a hearty pasta dish, a warm bowl of soup, or a fresh salad. The buttery garlic flavor enhances the overall meal experience, making it more enjoyable.
For a more festive touch, consider garnishing the bread with additional fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a hint of heat. This simple addition can elevate the dish and impress your guests.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, storing garlic bread is easy.
Wrap the slices in foil or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Garlic bread is best enjoyed fresh, but with proper storage, you can savor the flavors even after the initial serving. Enjoy this delightful treat as a staple in your home cooking repertoire!
Quick Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread
This garlic bread features sliced bread topped with a mixture of butter, garlic, and herbs, then baked until golden and crispy. The recipe takes about 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread (French, Italian, or your choice)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Spread the Mixture: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each slice of bread.
- Add Cheese: If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the buttered bread slices.
- Bake: Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 slices
- Calories: 200kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 12g