Garlic Bread
Quick and easy homemade garlic bread with crispy edges and a rich, buttery garlic flavor. Perfect as a snack or side dish, this recipe comes together in under 15 minutes using simple, wholesome ingredients for maximum taste and comfort.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Not Gluten Free
Bread
- 1 crusty baguette or Italian loaf (about 12 inches)
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for drizzling)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (for cheesy garlic bread variation)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
- Additional herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano) as desired
- Prepare the garlic butter mixture: In a bowl, thoroughly mix the softened unsalted butter with freshly minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.
- Slice the bread: Cut the baguette or Italian loaf into approximately 1-inch thick slices to balance between holding the spread and crisping nicely.
- Spread the garlic butter: Generously coat each slice with the garlic butter mixture, covering all edges. If using grated cheese like Parmesan or shredded mozzarella/cheddar, sprinkle it atop the butter now.
- Bake or broil: Arrange the slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until the edges turn golden and crispy. Alternatively, broil for 1-2 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and serve immediately for optimal warmth, crispiness, and flavor.
Notes
- Use room temperature butter to blend garlic and herbs smoothly.
- Fresh garlic provides the best vibrant flavor; avoid pre-minced or powdered garlic if possible.
- A moderate amount of butter prevents bread from becoming soggy.
- Watch closely when broiling, as garlic bread can burn quickly.
- A serrated knife works best to slice bread cleanly without crushing.
- To store leftovers, wrap tightly and refrigerate up to 2 days.
- Freeze wrapped slices for up to 1 month.
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness; avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 0.3g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: garlic bread, quick garlic bread, easy garlic bread, garlic toast, buttery garlic bread, crispy garlic bread