Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe

Introduction

Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with almost any meal, from pasta dishes to soups and salads. With its crispy edges, soft buttery center, and that irresistible garlic flavor, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite in many households. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to elevate a simple meal, this easy homemade garlic bread recipe will be your go-to. Ready in just minutes, it’s the perfect blend of simplicity and deliciousness.

Ingredients

• 1 For the Garlic Butter:
  • 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 For the Cheese Topping (Optional):
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated. The butter should be smooth and spreadable.

2. Prepare the Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the loaf of bread in half horizontally to create two long pieces. If desired, cut each half into individual serving sizes for easier handling.
3. Place the bread halves cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Spread the Garlic Butter

1. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.

4. Add Cheese (Optional)

1. If you’re making cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the garlic butter. The cheese will melt into a deliciously gooey topping that’s hard to resist.

5. Bake the Garlic Bread

1. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
2. If you’ve added cheese, you may want to switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes to get the cheese bubbly and slightly browned.

6. Slice and Serve

1. Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. Slice the bread into individual pieces if you haven’t already, and serve warm. Garlic bread is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Helpful Tips

• Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced garlic from a jar. Freshly minced garlic adds a more robust and aromatic taste.
• Butter Consistency: Make sure your butter is soft enough to spread easily, but not melted. This ensures the garlic butter stays on the bread and doesn’t make it soggy.
• Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

Substitutions/Variations

• Vegan Option: Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version of garlic bread.
• Garlic Oil: For a lighter option, you can brush the bread with garlic-infused olive oil instead of using garlic butter.
• Herbed Butter: Add a mix of Italian herbs or even a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter for an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread, then wrap it tightly in foil and freeze it. When ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What bread is best for garlic bread?

French bread and Italian bread are classic choices because of their crusty exterior and soft interior, but any type of bread can work, including baguettes or even ciabatta.

How do I store leftover garlic bread?

Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (which might be rare!), store the garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it in aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy.

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Thank you for following along with this easy homemade garlic bread recipe. It’s a simple, delicious side that’s sure to be a hit at any meal. Happy cooking!