Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Best Garlic Bread You’ll Ever Eat is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with buttery, garlicky flavor in every bite. Made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes, this bread is the ultimate side for pasta dishes, soups, or any meal that needs a bold, savory companion.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
French bread or Italian loaf
unsalted butter (softened)
fresh garlic (minced)
parsley (chopped)
salt
grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
olive oil (optional for extra richness)
mozzarella cheese (optional for cheesy version)
directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with foil.
Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place cut side up on the baking sheet.
In a bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt.
Spread the garlic butter evenly over both halves of the bread.
Optional: sprinkle with Parmesan or mozzarella cheese for extra flavor.
Bake for 10–12 minutes until edges are golden and butter is melted.
For extra crispness, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—watch carefully.
Slice and serve warm.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8–10 slices.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Baking time: 10–12 minutes
Broiling time (optional): 1–2 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
Spread pesto under the butter layer for a herby twist.
Top with fresh herbs like basil or oregano after baking.
storage/reheating
Store leftover garlic bread wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or in a toaster oven.
Freeze unbaked garlic bread for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen as directed, adding 2–3 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
What type of bread is best?
French or Italian loaves with a soft interior and crisp crust work best.
Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use plant-based butter and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Can I prep it ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate or freeze until ready to bake.
How do I keep it soft inside?
Don’t overbake, and wrap in foil for a softer texture.
Conclusion
The Best Garlic Bread You’ll Ever Eat is rich, crisp, and totally irresistible. With its perfect balance of garlic, butter, and herbs, this homemade version is far superior to anything store-bought and guaranteed to elevate any meal with bold, comforting flavor.
PrintThe Best Garlic Bread You’ll Ever Eat
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Best Garlic Bread You’ll Ever Eat is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with buttery garlic flavor and fresh herbs. This crowd-pleasing side dish is quick to prepare and perfect alongside pasta, soups, or salads.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread, halved lengthwise
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, basil (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Place bread halves on a baking sheet, buttered side up.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Optional: Broil for an additional 1–2 minutes for a deeper golden top.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
- Try adding mozzarella cheese on top for a cheesy garlic bread variation.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer for best texture.