This garlic bread recipe is perfect for serving a large group, making it an ideal side dish for gatherings or parties. With its buttery, garlicky flavor and crispy edges, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
The recipe is simple and can be easily scaled up to accommodate your needs. You can use either a whole loaf of Italian or French bread, making it versatile for any occasion.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a beloved side dish that complements a variety of meals, especially Italian cuisine. Its crispy texture and rich garlic flavor make it a favorite at gatherings.
To achieve that perfect balance of crunch and softness, start with high-quality bread. Italian or French loaves work wonderfully, providing a sturdy base for the garlic butter spread.
Ingredients for Garlic Bread Bliss
The key to exceptional garlic bread lies in the ingredients. A generous amount of unsalted butter serves as the foundation, ensuring a rich flavor.
Fresh garlic is essential for that signature taste, while chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness. Seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional herbs like oregano can elevate the flavor profile.
Preparation Steps for Success
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bread bakes evenly, achieving that golden crust.
Next, prepare the garlic butter by mixing softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and seasonings. This mixture should be spread generously over the cut sides of the bread.
Baking to Perfection
Once the bread is prepared, place the halves cut side up on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, keeping an eye on them to avoid burning.
If you desire an extra crispy finish, consider broiling the bread for a couple of minutes at the end. This step adds a delightful crunch to the edges.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread is best served warm, straight from the oven. Slice it into manageable pieces for easy sharing.
Pair it with a small bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the overall experience. The combination of flavors is sure to impress your guests.
Perfect for Any Gathering
This garlic bread recipe is ideal for large gatherings, serving approximately 12-16 people. Its simplicity and deliciousness make it a go-to side dish.
Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive celebration, garlic bread is sure to be a hit. Its inviting aroma and golden appearance will draw everyone to the table.
Easy Garlic Bread Recipe for Large Gatherings
This garlic bread features a generous spread of garlic butter on toasted bread, creating a deliciously crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. The recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare and bake, serving approximately 12-16 people.
Ingredients
- 2 large loaves of Italian or French bread
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano until well combined.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the loaves of bread in half lengthwise, creating two long halves for each loaf.
- Spread the Mixture: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.
- Bake the Bread: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Optional Broil: For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, slice into pieces, and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12-16 pieces
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 22g