Table of Contents
Description
This homemade garlic bread is golden, buttery, and packed with flavor — an easy recipe perfect for pasta nights, parties, or cozy dinners!
Introduction
Few foods spark instant comfort like warm, freshly baked garlic bread. That first bite — crisp edges, soft center, and rich buttery garlic flavor — feels like a hug straight from the oven 🧄🥖. Whether you’re serving it alongside spaghetti, dipping it into marinara, or sneaking a slice before dinner is ready, garlic bread has a way of stealing the spotlight.
What makes this recipe special is how simple and foolproof it is. With just a handful of pantry staples and about 15 minutes, you’ll have restaurant-quality garlic bread right at home. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual get-togethers, or whenever a carb craving hits.
Even better? This easy recipe is endlessly customizable — from cheesy upgrades to lighter, healthier tweaks or even low-carb swaps. If you’ve ever wondered how to make garlic bread that’s perfectly golden on the outside and fluffy on the inside, you’re in exactly the right place. Let’s get baking!
Recipe Equipment
Before you begin, gather these helpful kitchen tools:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or foil
- Small mixing bowl
- Fork or silicone spatula
- Bread knife
- Measuring spoons
- Pastry brush (optional)
- Oven mitts
Recipe Stat Sheet (Quick View)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 5 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10–12 minutes |
| Total Time | 15–17 minutes |
| Servings | 6–8 slices |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Diet Style | Classic / Adaptable |
| Best For | Side dish or appetizer |
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread, sliced in half lengthwise
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Optional: ½ cup shredded mozzarella for cheesy garlic bread
Why these ingredients work:
Butter creates richness, garlic brings bold aroma, and herbs brighten every bite. Bread with a crusty exterior crisps beautifully while staying soft inside.
Ingredient Notes
- Bread: French bread gives you crunchy edges and fluffy centers. Sourdough works too for extra tang.
- Garlic: Fresh cloves provide the best punch — jarred garlic is milder.
- Butter: Let it soften fully so it spreads easily.
- Cheese: Parmesan adds salty depth; mozzarella melts into gooey perfection.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup effortless.
2. Make the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth and fragrant. The aroma alone will make you hungry!
3. Prepare the Bread
Place the sliced bread cut-side up on the baking sheet. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture across every inch — don’t be shy.
4. Add Cheese (Optional)
If you’re making cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle Parmesan or mozzarella evenly over the top.
5. Bake Until Golden
Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges turn golden and crispy while the center stays warm and fluffy.
6. Broil for Extra Crisp
For ultra-crispy tops, broil for 1–2 minutes — keeping a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
7. Slice & Serve
Remove from the oven, cool slightly, then cut into slices and serve immediately while hot and buttery.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread shines beside almost any meal:
- Pair with spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine Alfredo
- Dip into marinara, creamy soups, or chili
- Serve with salads for a balanced dinner
- Cut into smaller pieces for party appetizers
It’s also fantastic on its own — just saying 😄.
Pro Tips & Variations
Try roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor, or add red pepper flakes for heat. Swap parsley for basil or oregano for Italian vibes. For a lighter twist, use olive oil instead of butter. Want a low-carb option? Use keto bread or cloud bread. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days and reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back that crispy texture.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Wrap tightly and store for 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze baked slices up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or air fry 2–3 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice – Approximate)
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 5g
This classic garlic bread recipe proves that simple ingredients can create unforgettable flavor. Golden, buttery, and packed with garlicky goodness, it’s guaranteed to disappear fast at the table.
Give it a try tonight, snap a photo, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Don’t forget to share this easy recipe with fellow bread lovers!