What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This garlic bread recipe is perfect for any meal, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a big gathering with friends.
- Simple and quick, it uses everyday ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Irresistibly flavorful, with a perfect balance of garlic, butter, and herbs that will make your taste buds sing.
- Customizable, you can add cheese or spices to make it your own unique creation.
Recipe
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. This homemade version is simple to make and delivers a crispy exterior with a soft, buttery center infused with garlic and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cut the loaf of bread in half lengthwise and place it on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Optionally, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw garlic. Adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 12 minutes
Cuisine
Italian
Serving
Serves 6-8
Nutrition
Garlic bread is a flavorful side dish that pairs well with many meals. Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200 | 8g | 28g | 5g | 1g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade garlic bread with hearty pasta dishes, like spaghetti or lasagna, because the flavors complement each other perfectly. It’s also a great pairing with soups, especially tomato or chicken noodle, adding a satisfying crunch to every bite. Trust me, these combinations make mealtime feel extra special!
Pasta Dishes
When I’m making pasta, I always think about what will pair perfectly with it to complete the meal. Garlic bread is my go-to—it’s crispy, buttery, and adds just the right crunch. A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness, while roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers bring color and flavor. For protein, grilled chicken or shrimp works wonders. Don’t forget a sprinkle of Parmesan on top! These sides turn a simple pasta dish into something special. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll never skip the extras again. It’s all about balance and taste.
Soup Pairings
Nothing beats a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, but the right side can turn it into a full, satisfying meal. I love pairing my homemade garlic bread with creamy tomato soup—the buttery crunch balances the rich, tangy flavors perfectly. For a heartier option, try it with minestrone or French onion soup; the bread soaks up the broth like a dream. If you’re craving something lighter, a simple vegetable soup works too. Trust me, once you’ve dipped that garlicky slice into a steaming bowl, you’ll never want to eat soup alone again. It’s a match made in comfort food heaven!
