Great Garlic Bread Recipe

There’s something downright magical about a warm slice of Great Garlic Bread, fresh out of the oven, buttery and aromatic with that punch of garlic everyone craves. This irresistible classic is the highlight of any meal, and it’s every bit as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re serving it alongside a pasta feast or just sneaking a piece straight from the baking sheet, Great Garlic Bread will elevate even the simplest dinner into something special.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of staple ingredients to make unforgettable Great Garlic Bread. Each element has its own role, coming together to deliver crispy edges, a tender buttery crumb, and bold, crave-worthy flavor.

• French or Italian bread (about 16 inches): Wide, crusty loaves soak up the buttery spread and bake up perfectly crispy and golden.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened): Softened butter makes spreading a breeze and carries those big flavors into every crevice.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Nothing beats freshly minced garlic for that unmistakable zing that makes this bread so addictive.
• Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds color and a burst of freshness that balances the richness of the butter.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of salt sharpens all the other flavors and ensures every bite sings.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances the garlic and adds a subtle kick.
• Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a gentle heat, this is the secret ingredient that brings excitement to each slice.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/3 cup, optional): Adds a savory, nutty finish—ideal for cheese-lovers who want that next-level flavor.

How to Make Great Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F, setting the stage for crispy, golden goodness. Take your French or Italian loaf and slice it in half lengthwise; this way, each slice gets maximum surface area for all that garlicky butter. Lay both halves cut-side up on a baking sheet to catch every drop of melted flavor.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Spread

In a small bowl, stir together the softened butter and minced garlic until blended beautifully. Add the chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and—if you’re feeling a little daring—the red pepper flakes. Make sure the mixture is evenly mixed so every inch of bread gets that mouthwatering flavor.

Step 3: Slather the Spread

Grab a spatula or butter knife and spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut sides of each bread half. Don’t be shy—every nook and cranny should glisten with savory goodness. If you love cheese (and let’s be real, who doesn’t?), now is the time to sprinkle your grated Parmesan evenly on top.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the oven and let it work its magic for 10 to 12 minutes. You’re aiming for a golden, bubbly top and a crisp edge. Want an extra-crisp, crave-worthy finish? Pop the bread under the broiler for 1 or 2 minutes—but keep a close eye, as it can brown in a flash!

Step 5: Slice and Serve

Once your Great Garlic Bread is beautifully golden and your kitchen is full of that unbeatable aroma, slice it into thick or thin pieces—however you like. Serve it warm and watch it disappear before your eyes.

How to Serve Great Garlic Bread

Garnishes

A final flourish of chopped parsley or even an extra dusting of Parmesan over hot Great Garlic Bread looks gorgeous and adds a tasty fresh finish. For a little zing, consider a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving.

Side Dishes

Great Garlic Bread is the ultimate companion to Italian-inspired dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or creamy soups. Don’t hesitate to pair it with salads or grilled veggies—the bold flavors create the perfect harmonious plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice the bread into strips and serve in a basket lined with a fun kitchen towel, or cut small squares to make garlicky croutons for soups and salads. You can even split the loaf and make individual “boats” topped with mozzarella and more herbs for an appetizer everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Great Garlic Bread tightly in foil to keep it fresh, and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay tasty and moist up to two days, making it easy to reheat at a moment’s notice.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Great Garlic Bread! Before baking, wrap the prepared bread (with butter and seasonings already spread on) in foil and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, just bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Reheating

To revive leftover slices, wrap them loosely in foil and bake at 350°F for about 8 minutes, or until hot. For extra crispness, unwrap and broil briefly. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crust nice and crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar instead of fresh?

You can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch, but fresh garlic truly delivers that trademark punch and aroma that make Great Garlic Bread irresistible. If you do swap it in, adjust the amount to taste since jarred garlic is often milder.

What if I don’t have Parmesan? Are there other cheeses that work?

Absolutely! Any hard, flavorful cheese like Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even a sprinkle of mozzarella will add delicious character. Try mixing cheeses for a personal twist on your Great Garlic Bread.

How do I make my garlic bread even cheesier?

For extra-cheesy Great Garlic Bread, layer on shredded mozzarella right before baking, or melt a blend of mozzarella and cheddar for gooey, pull-apart slices. It’s comfort food at its finest!

Is there a vegan way to enjoy Great Garlic Bread?

Yes! Swap in your favorite plant-based butter and skip the cheese, or use vegan parmesan shreds to keep all that flavor without the dairy. Homemade vegan garlic bread never tasted so good.

Can I make this recipe with a gluten-free loaf?

Definitely. Pick a sturdy gluten-free baguette or sandwich loaf, and follow the recipe as usual. Just keep an eye on baking times, as gluten-free breads can brown faster.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for the kind of side dish that turns every meal into a celebration, Great Garlic Bread is an absolute must. Give it a try, experiment with your own favorite twists, and share the joy—it’s the kind of treat that always brings people together.

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