The Ultimate Classic Garlic Bread Recipe For Butter Lovers

Crafting a mouthwatering classic garlic bread requires just a few simple ingredients and a dash of culinary passion.

Kitchens come alive with the aromatic blend of buttery goodness and zesty garlic.

Fresh herbs and quality bread make all the difference in this timeless side dish.

Crispy edges and soft, warm centers create a sensory experience that delights every palate.

Bakery-style results are totally achievable with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Anyone can master this recipe with confidence and a sprinkle of creativity.

You’ll want to slice into this golden, fragrant marvel and savor each incredible bite.

Why Classic Garlic Bread Is Everyone’s Favorite

• Boost Speed and Simplicity: Prepare this classic garlic bread with minimal ingredients and basic kitchen tools, making it a super quick side dish for any meal.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or as a delicious accompaniment to pasta, soups, and salads that everyone from kids to adults will love.
• Customize with Ease: Experiment with different bread types, add cheese, or mix herbs to create your own unique version that suits your taste preferences and mood.
• Budget-Friendly Delight: Requires just a few affordable ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, delivering maximum flavor without breaking the bank.

Everything You Need For Classic Garlic Bread

• French Bread: A crusty and soft bread that provides the perfect foundation for classic garlic bread.
• Italian Bread: An alternative soft bread option with a light, airy texture.

• Butter: A rich, creamy ingredient that helps create a golden, crispy surface and adds luxurious flavor.
• Garlic: A pungent and aromatic ingredient that provides the signature taste of classic garlic bread.
• Parsley: A fresh herb that adds a subtle green color and light, herbaceous note to the garlic butter.
• Salt: An essential seasoning that enhances the overall flavor profile of the garlic bread.
• Black Pepper: A spicy, aromatic spice that adds a subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.

• Parmesan Cheese, Chives, Red Pepper Flakes: Optional toppings that can add extra flavor and visual appeal to the garlic bread.

Easy Steps For Classic Garlic Bread Success

Step 1: Warm Up the Cooking Space

Crank up your oven to a toasty 375°F. If you’re skipping the oven, get a skillet sizzling on medium heat.

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Butter Blend

• Softened butter
• Finely chopped garlic
• Fresh parsley (optional)
• A pinch of salt
• Freshly ground black pepper

Mash and mix these ingredients until they become a delicious, fragrant spread.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread Canvas

Slice your bread right down the middle lengthwise, creating two perfect halves.

Step 4: Lavish with Garlic Goodness

Slather the zesty butter mixture generously across the bread’s inner surfaces. Make sure every inch gets coated with the flavor-packed spread.

Step 5: Transform in the Oven

If using an oven, place the bread on a baking sheet. Pop it in and let it bake for about 10 minutes.

Watch for golden edges and bubbling butter.

Step 6: Skillet Alternative

For skillet lovers, place the bread butter-side down in the hot pan.

Cook for roughly 5 minutes until it turns a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Slice the bread into delectable pieces.

Serve piping hot and watch everyone dive in!

Tips To Nail Classic Garlic Bread Every Time

• Transform classic garlic bread into a healthier option by using whole wheat or sourdough bread for added nutrition and depth of flavor. Select fresh, high-quality garlic for the most intense and robust taste, avoiding pre-minced garlic which can taste less vibrant. Experiment with additional herbs like rosemary or thyme to create unique flavor variations that complement the garlic butter. Keep an eye on the bread while toasting to prevent burning, as ovens and skillets can heat differently depending on your kitchen equipment. Store leftover garlic bread in an airtight container and reheat in the oven or toaster for a crispy texture that maintains its delicious buttery essence.

Fun Twists On Classic Garlic Bread To Try

• Cheesy Garlic Bread: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese over the garlic butter before baking or toasting, creating a melty, gooey top layer.
• Herb-Infused Garlic Bread: Mix fresh thyme, rosemary, and basil into the garlic butter for an aromatic and flavorful herb-packed version.
• Spicy Jalapeño Garlic Bread: Add finely chopped jalapeños and a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a fiery kick and extra heat.
• Mediterranean Garlic Bread: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and dried oregano into the garlic butter for a Mediterranean-inspired taste.

Great Pairings For Classic Garlic Bread

• Pair with Robust Red Wine: Choose a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel to complement the rich, garlicky butter and enhance the bread's savory flavor profile.
• Serve alongside Hearty Tomato Soup: Create a comforting meal by dunking the crispy garlic bread into a warm, tangy tomato soup that balances the bread's richness.
• Match with Fresh Herb Salad: Toss a light, zesty green salad with mixed herbs like basil and cilantro to cut through the garlic bread's heaviness and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Complement with Grilled Protein: Add grilled chicken, steak, or shrimp as a main course to transform the garlic bread from a side dish into a complete, satisfying meal.

How To Store Classic Garlic Bread The Right Way

• Refrigerate: Store leftover garlic bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent moisture and maintain freshness.
• Freeze: Place cooled garlic bread in a freezer-safe bag or container. Seal completely, removing excess air. Keeps well for 1-2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.
• Reheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Wrap bread in foil to prevent drying. Warm for 8-10 minutes until heated through. Unwrap for the last 2 minutes to crisp the edges.
• Reheat Skillet: Warm bread in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Add a pat of butter for extra crispiness and flavor.

Classic Garlic Bread Questions Made Easy

• Can I use different types of bread for garlic bread?

Yes, you can use various bread types like French baguette, ciabatta, or sourdough. Just ensure the bread is fresh and has a good sturdy texture for toasting.

• How can I make the garlic butter more flavorful?

Add extra herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the butter mixture. You can also sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese for a richer taste.

• Is it possible to prepare garlic bread ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Spread it on bread just before toasting to maintain the bread’s crispness.

Classic Garlic Bread Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Garlic bread lovers rejoice with this mouthwatering classic garlic bread recipe that brings Italian bakery magic right to kitchen counters. Crisp edges and buttery garlic-infused centers promise pure comfort you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 loaf bread (French or Italian)
• 1/2 cup (113 grams) butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Warm the oven to 375°F, preparing a baking sheet for crispy garlic bread transformation.
2. Create a flavor-packed spread by blending softened butter with finely minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and ground black pepper in a mixing bowl.
3. Carefully slice the bread horizontally, revealing a perfect canvas for the aromatic garlic butter mixture.
4. Generously coat both inner bread surfaces with the prepared herb-infused butter, ensuring complete and even coverage.
5. Transfer the butter-laden bread halves onto the baking sheet, positioning them cut-side up for optimal toasting.
6. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven, allowing the bread to crisp and golden for approximately 10 minutes.
7. Watch for the telltale signs of perfection: melted butter bubbling and edges turning a delightful crisp brown.
8. Remove from the oven and let rest momentarily to cool slightly.
9. Slice into diagonal segments, creating individual portions perfect for sharing or devouring.
10. Serve immediately while the garlic bread remains warm and irresistibly crunchy.

Notes

• Soften butter at room temperature for smooth, even spreading without tearing the bread.
• Choose a sturdy bread like French or Italian loaf for the best crispy texture and golden-brown results.
• Add extra cheese like grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a richer, more indulgent garlic bread experience.
• Reduce calories by using olive oil instead of butter and whole wheat bread for a healthier version.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 60 mg