Classic Garlic Bread
This Classic Garlic Bread is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with buttery garlic goodness. Made with a French baguette or Italian loaf, this easy-to-make side dish pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, and salads. Whether baked in the oven, grilled, or made with cheesy variations, this garlic bread recipe is a must-have for any meal!
Equipment
- Baking Sheet – To bake the bread evenly in the oven.
- Oven or Grill – For baking or grilling the garlic bread.
- Mixing Bowl – To combine the garlic butter mixture.
- Knife & Cutting Board – For slicing the bread.
- Spatula or Butter Knife – To spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on the bread.
Ingredients
- 1 French baguette or Italian loaf
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened (or olive oil for a dairy-free option)
- 3-4 garlic cloves minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan optional, for extra flavor
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella optional, for cheesy garlic bread
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional, for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 400°F (200°C) for even toasting.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the baguette lengthwise or into thick slices, but do not slice all the way through if keeping it as a loaf.
- Spread the Butter Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter on the bread. If using, sprinkle Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake the Bread:
- For Soft Garlic Bread: Wrap the loaf in foil and bake for 10-15 minutes.
- For Crispy Garlic Bread: Bake uncovered for 10 minutes, then broil for 1-2 minutes for a golden crust.
- Serve Warm: Let cool slightly, then slice and serve with your favorite dishes!
Notes
For a cheesy version: Add mozzarella and Parmesan before baking.
For a vegan option: Use olive oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter.
For gluten-free garlic bread: Use a gluten-free baguette or sturdy bread alternative.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers wrapped at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or air fry for 3-4 minutes at 350°F for extra crispiness.
For a vegan option: Use olive oil or dairy-free butter instead of regular butter.
For gluten-free garlic bread: Use a gluten-free baguette or sturdy bread alternative.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers wrapped at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes or air fry for 3-4 minutes at 350°F for extra crispiness.