Description
This Homemade Garlic Bread recipe is a quick and flavorful side dish made with fresh garlic, softened butter, and crusty French bread. It’s crispy on the outside, soft inside, and perfect for pasta nights, soups, or as a stand-alone snack. Easy, freezer-friendly, and packed with buttery garlic flavor.
Ingredients
1 loaf French bread or baguette
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced or grated
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the French bread in half horizontally, or into thick slices for individual pieces.
3. In a bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
4. Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread using a spatula or pastry brush.
5. If desired, sprinkle Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top of the buttered bread.
6. Place the bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
7. Switch to broil for 1–2 minutes until golden and crisp.
8. Serve hot and enjoy immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
For extra crispiness, place the bread closer to the top broiler and keep a close eye to avoid burning.
You can prep the garlic bread ahead and freeze before baking. Bake from frozen by adding 3–5 minutes.
Garlic powder can be used as a substitute (1/2 tsp per 2 tbsp butter), but fresh garlic gives better depth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking + Broiling
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 25mg