What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This garlic bread recipe is a game-changer, turning a simple side into the star of the meal with just a few easy steps. You’ll love how it brings everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma and flavor.
Crispy, buttery perfection—each slice is golden on the outside, soft inside, and packed with garlicky goodness. Quick and foolproof—ready in under 20 minutes, even if you’re not a kitchen pro. Endlessly customizable—add cheese, herbs, or a sprinkle of chili flakes to make it your own.
Recipe
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. It’s easy to make and packed with buttery garlic flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place it on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top if desired.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Remove from the oven, slice, and serve warm.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw.
- Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can be added for extra depth.
Equipment:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 6–8 servings
Nutrition
Garlic bread nutrition can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s an approximate breakdown for a standard serving (1 slice, about 35g):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Carbs | 18 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my garlic bread with hearty pasta dishes, like spaghetti or lasagna, to soak up all the delicious sauce. It’s also my go-to side for comforting soups, such as tomato or minestrone, because it adds a warm, buttery crunch. I think it’s the perfect companion for so many meals, making everything feel a little more special.
Pasta Dishes
When I’m making pasta, I always think about what sides will make the meal feel complete, and that’s where garlic bread comes in. There’s something magical about how it soaks up leftover sauce while adding a crispy, buttery crunch. Whether I’m whipping up spaghetti, fettuccine alfredo, or a creamy carbonara, I know garlic bread will elevate the dish. It’s perfect for mopping up every last bit of flavor, and it adds a comforting richness that rounds out the meal. Plus, it’s so easy to make! For me, serving pasta without garlic bread feels incomplete—it’s the ultimate pairing.
Soup Pairings
Just like pasta, soup feels even more satisfying with the right side to complement it. Garlic bread is my go-to choice—it’s crispy, buttery, and adds a warm contrast to any bowl of soup. Tomato soup paired with garlic bread is a classic combo, but I also love dipping it into creamy broccoli cheddar or hearty chicken noodle. For something lighter, a bowl of minestrone or vegetable soup works beautifully. Garlic bread transforms soup from a simple meal to something extra cozy. I always make extra because, let’s be honest, it’s impossible to stop at just one piece!
