Description
This easy garlic bread recipe delivers a crispy, golden crust with a soft, buttery center, infused with fresh garlic and herbs. Perfect as a side, appetizer, or snack, and customizable with cheese and spices!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf of French or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for extra crispiness)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 375°F (190°C). If using a broiler, preheat it as well.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix butter, garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir in olive oil for extra richness.
- Slice the Bread: Cut loaf in half lengthwise or into 1-inch sections.
- Spread the Butter Mixture: Evenly coat each slice or loaf half with the garlic butter. Sprinkle with Parmesan if using.
- Bake: Place bread on a baking sheet, cut side up. Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add shredded mozzarella before baking.
- Garlic Herb Bread: Include dried oregano, basil, or thyme.
- Extra Buttery: Use an additional tablespoon of butter.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle more red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: Garlic bread, homemade garlic bread, easy garlic bread, cheesy garlic bread, best garlic bread