This garlic bread recipe is a quick and easy way to enjoy a classic side dish. Made with simple ingredients like bread, garlic, and butter, it delivers a deliciously savory flavor.
Cooking garlic bread in a pan allows for a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and buttery. It’s perfect for pairing with pasta, soups, or salads.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Butter Mixture
To achieve that irresistible flavor, start by preparing a garlic butter mixture. Combine softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl.
Mix these ingredients thoroughly until they form a smooth paste. This blend will not only enhance the taste but also give the garlic bread its signature aroma.
Selecting the Right Bread
The choice of bread plays a significant role in the final outcome of your garlic bread. Options like French, Italian, or sourdough are excellent choices due to their texture and flavor.
Each type of bread will provide a unique taste and crunch, making it essential to select one that complements your meal. A thicker slice will hold up better to the garlic butter, ensuring a satisfying bite.
Cooking Techniques for Crispy Perfection
Cooking garlic bread in a pan allows for a delightful contrast between a crispy exterior and a soft, buttery interior. Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat.
Once the pan is warm, place the slices of bread, buttered side down, and let them cook for about 3-4 minutes. The goal is to achieve a golden brown crust that adds texture to each bite.
Finishing Touches for Flavor Enhancement
After flipping the bread, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese during the last minute of cooking. This step elevates the flavor profile, adding a rich, savory note.
Continue cooking until the other side is golden and the cheese has melted slightly. This finishing touch can make a significant difference in taste.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Garlic bread is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with various meals. It complements pasta dishes, soups, and salads, making it a staple in many households.
Serve the garlic bread hot, straight from the pan, for the best experience. The aroma and warmth will invite everyone to dig in, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Nutrition and Portion Considerations
This garlic bread recipe serves four slices, with each slice containing approximately 180 calories. It’s a delightful treat that can be enjoyed without guilt when served in moderation.
With 12 grams of fat and 3 grams of protein per slice, it fits nicely into a balanced diet when paired with lighter dishes. Keep this in mind when planning your meals!
Quick Pan-Fried Garlic Bread Recipe
This garlic bread features slices of bread coated with a garlic butter mixture, pan-fried until golden brown. The recipe takes about 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of your favorite bread (French, Italian, or sourdough)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture on one side of each slice of bread.
- Heat the Pan: Place a skillet over medium heat and allow it to warm up for a minute.
- Cook the Bread: Place the slices of bread, buttered side down, in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and Finish: Carefully flip the bread slices and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the other side is golden. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese during the last minute of cooking.
- Serve: Remove from the pan and serve hot. Enjoy your garlic bread with your favorite dishes.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 16g