This homemade garlic bread is a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. Made with fresh garlic, butter, and herbs, it offers a delightful flavor that enhances any meal.
The recipe is simple and can be prepared in about 2 hours, including rising time for the dough. You can customize it by adding cheese or different herbs to suit your taste.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a timeless favorite that complements a variety of dishes. Its rich flavor profile, combined with a soft, fluffy interior and a crispy crust, makes it an irresistible side.
Whether served alongside pasta, soups, or salads, this homemade version elevates any meal. The aroma of freshly baked garlic bread wafting through the kitchen is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.
Ingredients for Success
To achieve that perfect loaf, a few key ingredients are essential. All-purpose flour serves as the base, while active dry yeast helps the bread rise to fluffy perfection.
Fresh garlic, softened butter, and a mix of herbs bring the flavor to life. Optional additions like shredded mozzarella cheese can enhance the taste even further, making it a customizable delight.
The Art of Dough Preparation
Starting with the yeast activation is crucial. Combining warm water, sugar, and yeast allows the mixture to froth, signaling that the yeast is ready to work its magic.
Next, mixing the flour and salt with the yeast mixture creates a dough that should be kneaded until smooth. This step is vital for developing the bread’s structure and texture.
Rising to the Occasion
Once the dough is formed, it needs time to rise. Placing it in a greased bowl and covering it allows the yeast to do its job, doubling the dough’s size in about an hour.
This first rise is essential for achieving that light and airy texture. Afterward, preparing the garlic butter mixture adds another layer of flavor that will be spread on the dough.
Shaping and Baking
After the dough has risen, it’s time to shape it. Rolling it out into a rectangle and spreading the garlic butter evenly ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
Rolling the dough into a log and placing it in a greased loaf pan for a second rise allows it to puff up even more before baking. The final baking process transforms the dough into a golden brown loaf, ready to be sliced and enjoyed.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked, the garlic bread should cool slightly before slicing to maintain its structure.
Serving it with a small bowl of marinara sauce and a sprig of parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a delightful dipping option. This combination makes for an inviting and delicious addition to any meal.
Easy Garlic Bread Recipe
This garlic bread features a soft, buttery interior with a crispy crust, infused with the rich flavor of garlic and herbs. The recipe yields about 12 slices and is perfect for sharing.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Make Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and mix until a dough forms. Knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, and black pepper until well combined.
- Shape Bread: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the risen dough and roll it out into a rectangle. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the dough. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top.
- Second Rise: Roll the dough into a log and place it in a greased loaf pan. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 12 slices
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 20g