Garlic bread recipe

There’s something incredibly cozy about warm, buttery garlic bread straight from the oven. This garlic bread recipe is easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for adding a comforting touch to any meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a family dinner, or a chilly evening, this bread hits the spot. I often make it when I want something quick but satisfying, and the aroma fills the kitchen in the best way. Soft inside, golden outside, and just the right garlic kick, it’s a simple treat that feels homemade and inviting every time.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe gives you soft, golden bread loaded with buttery garlic flavor without complicated steps. It’s flexible—perfect for slicing, spreading, or even freezing for later. Budget-friendly ingredients come together quickly, and the leftovers toast beautifully for a second round of comfort. Pinterest cooks will love how cozy and weeknight-friendly this garlic bread recipe is. It’s crowd-pleasing for family dinners, easy to prep in advance, and fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Every slice is soft yet crisp at the edges, making it a versatile side that feels indulgent without being fussy or time-consuming.

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Ingredients

Tip: Use fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor and aroma.

  • Baguette or French bread – 1 loaf
  • Unsalted butter – ½ cup (softened)
  • Garlic – 4 cloves (minced)
  • Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons (chopped)
  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon
  • Grated Parmesan cheese – 2 tablespoons (optional)
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Instructions

Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the bread in half lengthwise. In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt until smooth and evenly mixed.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process
Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over both bread halves. If using Parmesan, sprinkle it evenly on top. Arrange the bread on a baking sheet, cut sides up, ready for the oven.

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Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the butter is melted, garlic aroma fills the kitchen, and edges of the bread start to turn golden.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer
Switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes to crisp the top slightly. Watch closely to avoid burning. Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This garlic bread is fast, simple, and requires minimal hands-on time, making it ideal for busy evenings. You can prep the butter mixture ahead and store it for later, then assemble and bake when ready. Leftovers reheat beautifully, and even a partially frozen loaf turns into a warm, cozy side in minutes, perfect for flexible cooking schedules.

Tips & Tricks

  • Soften butter properly: Softened butter spreads more evenly and mixes better with garlic. Cold butter leads to uneven flavor and clumps, so leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
  • Even garlic distribution: Chop or mince garlic finely to avoid biting into large raw pieces. Uneven garlic can overwhelm some slices while leaving others bland.
  • Watch the broil carefully: Broiling adds crispness, but a few seconds too long can burn the bread. Stay close and remove as soon as edges are golden.
  • Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley brightens the flavor and aroma. Dried herbs work, but fresh gives that lively, homemade touch that feels inviting.

Variations

  • Meaty version: Add cooked, crumbled bacon or diced ham on top before baking. It creates a savory, hearty side perfect for casual family meals.
  • Vegetarian option: Mix in finely chopped roasted red peppers or mushrooms with the garlic butter. It adds texture and flavor without meat.
  • Ingredient swap: Replace butter with olive oil for a lighter version. Drizzle generously and mix in garlic and parsley for the same aromatic result.
  • Flavor boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes to the butter mixture. It gives a subtle kick and enhances the roasted garlic aroma.
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Serving Suggestions

  • With pasta dishes: Serve alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or creamy pasta sauces. The warm garlic bread soaks up sauce beautifully.
  • Family dinner side: Place on the table with soup or salad. Kids and adults alike can grab slices easily, making meals feel cozy and complete.
  • Snack or appetizer: Cut into small pieces and serve as a warm, flavorful starter for gatherings or casual nights at home.
  • Breakfast twist: Toast slices lightly, spread a little extra butter, and enjoy with eggs or cheese for a comforting morning treat.

Storage Instructions

  • Fridge storage: Store cooled garlic bread wrapped in foil or airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep it sealed to maintain softness.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving too long to prevent soggy texture.
  • Freezing: Wrap in foil or freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Bake or toast directly from frozen for fresh flavor.
  • Make-ahead tips: Prepare garlic butter in advance and store in the fridge for up to a week. Spread on bread just before baking.

Recipe Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Rest Time: 2 minutes
  • Total Time: 24 minutes

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Each slice contains roughly 150–180 calories and 3–5 grams of protein. It provides carbohydrates from the bread and small amounts of calcium if Parmesan is used. Values are estimates and may vary depending on bread type, butter, and portion size.

FAQs

Yes, prepare the garlic butter and store in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready.

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You may have applied too much butter or baked at too low a temperature.

Yes, though fresh garlic gives a stronger, fresher flavor.

Broil briefly at the end for a few minutes to achieve a golden, crisp top.

Up to 2 days in the fridge, or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

This garlic bread recipe is simple, cozy, and versatile, perfect for busy evenings or family meals. It’s easy to customize with herbs, cheese, or a small twist in flavor, making it ideal to bake again and again. Warm, buttery, and aromatic, it brings comfort to any table. Whether served alongside pasta, soup, or enjoyed as a snack, it’s the kind of homemade bread that makes everyday meals feel special.

Garlic bread recipe Save
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Garlic bread recipe

Recipe by Tasty VaultCourse: Bread Recipe
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

12

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Soft, buttery garlic bread with a golden crust. Quick to make and perfect for family meals or cozy nights.

Ingredients

  • Baguette or French bread – 1 loaf

  • Unsalted butter – ½ cup (softened)

  • Garlic – 4 cloves (minced)

  • Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons (chopped)

  • Salt – ¼ teaspoon

  • Grated Parmesan cheese – 2 tablespoons (optional)

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice bread in half lengthwise. Mix butter, garlic, parsley, and salt.
  • Spread butter mixture on bread halves. Sprinkle Parmesan if using. Place on baking sheet.
  • Bake 10–12 minutes until edges turn golden and aroma fills kitchen.
  • Broil 1–2 minutes for crisp top. Slice and serve warm.

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