This quick and easy garlic bread recipe is a perfect side dish for pasta, soups, or salads. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously buttery and garlicky bread that everyone will love.
The recipe is straightforward and can be prepared in under 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Creating the Perfect Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a beloved side dish that complements a variety of meals, from pasta to soups. The combination of crispy bread and rich garlic butter creates a delightful experience for the taste buds.
To achieve that perfect balance of crunch and softness, start with a good quality loaf of French or Italian bread. The bread should be fresh to ensure it holds up well during baking. A well-prepared garlic butter mixture is key to infusing the bread with flavor.
Ingredients for Success
The essential ingredients for garlic bread include unsalted butter, fresh garlic, and parsley. The butter serves as the base, providing that rich, creamy texture.
Minced garlic adds the aromatic punch, while parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color. Optional seasonings like Italian herbs and grated Parmesan can elevate the dish even further, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Preparation Made Easy
Preparing garlic bread is a quick process that can be completed in about 15 minutes. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure the bread bakes evenly.
Mix the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture will be generously spread on the cut sides of the bread, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Baking to Perfection
Once the bread is prepared, place it on a baking sheet with the cut side facing up. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, watching closely for that golden, crispy edge.
If you’re feeling indulgent, consider adding grated Parmesan cheese during the last few minutes of baking. This will create a deliciously cheesy crust that enhances the overall flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread is best served warm, sliced into pieces for easy sharing. Pair it with a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, adding a tangy contrast to the buttery bread.
The rustic presentation on a wooden table adds to the homemade feel, making it an inviting addition to any meal. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, garlic bread is sure to be a hit.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This garlic bread recipe serves four and is a delightful treat at just 180 calories per piece. With a balance of carbohydrates and fats, it’s a satisfying side that complements many dishes.
Enjoying garlic bread is not just about taste; it’s about the experience of sharing good food with loved ones. So, gather around the table and savor each bite of this classic dish.
Simple Garlic Bread Recipe
This garlic bread features a crispy exterior and a soft, buttery interior, infused with the rich flavor of garlic and herbs. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and serves 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 (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until well combined.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise, creating two long halves.
- Spread the Mixture: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture on the cut sides of the bread.
- Bake: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Optional Topping: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last 2 minutes of baking.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, slice into pieces, and serve warm.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4 pieces
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 15g