This homemade garlic bread is a simple and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. Made with fresh garlic, butter, and herbs, it offers a delightful aroma and flavor that enhances any meal.
The recipe is easy to follow and can be prepared in under 30 minutes. You can customize it by adding cheese or using different types of bread to suit your taste.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a beloved side dish that enhances a variety of meals, from pasta to salads. The combination of warm, crusty bread with a rich garlic butter spread is hard to resist.
To achieve a golden-brown loaf, start with a quality French or Italian bread. The texture and flavor of these breads provide a perfect canvas for the garlic butter. When baked, they develop a delightful crunch on the outside while remaining soft on the inside.
Essential Ingredients for Flavor
The magic of garlic bread lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. A mixture of softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, and fresh parsley creates a delicious spread that infuses the bread with flavor.
Seasoning with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes adds depth to the taste. For those who enjoy a cheesy twist, grated Parmesan can be sprinkled on top before baking, enhancing the overall richness.
Preparation Steps
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bread bakes evenly and reaches that perfect golden hue.
Next, prepare the garlic butter by combining the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and seasonings in a bowl. This step is crucial for achieving a well-balanced flavor profile.
Assembly and Baking
Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise, allowing for easy spreading of the garlic butter mixture. Generously apply the mixture to the cut sides, ensuring every inch is covered for maximum flavor.
Once the bread is prepared, place it on a baking sheet and let the oven work its magic. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, keeping an eye on it until the edges turn golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
After baking, allow the garlic bread to cool slightly before slicing it into individual servings. This dish is best enjoyed warm, as the melted butter and garlic create a mouthwatering aroma that invites everyone to the table.
For an appealing presentation, serve the garlic bread on a rustic wooden cutting board, garnished with fresh parsley and a few cloves of garlic. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also hints at the delicious flavors to come.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This garlic bread recipe serves about four people, making it a perfect side for family dinners or gatherings. Each serving contains approximately 220 calories, with a satisfying balance of fats and carbohydrates.
Whether paired with a hearty pasta dish or enjoyed on its own, garlic bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its simplicity and flavor make it a staple in many households, inviting everyone to savor each bite.
Easy Garlic Bread Recipe
This garlic bread features a buttery spread made with minced garlic and parsley, slathered on slices of crusty bread and baked until golden and crispy. The recipe serves about 4 people.
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 crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 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, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. If desired, you can also slice it into smaller pieces for individual servings.
- Spread the Mixture: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g