There’s something heartwarming about the smell of garlic wafting from the kitchen, especially on a chilly evening. This garlic bread recipe is one that brings me straight back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen in Tuscany. I remember watching her with wide eyes as she smashed cloves of garlic with the side of her knife, the aroma mixing with melting butter on a rustic stove. It was a simple act, but the result? Magic.
Whether served alongside a bubbling lasagna, a hearty minestrone, or enjoyed on its own, this garlic bread recipe is everything you want in a comfort food: crusty, buttery, and rich with roasted garlic flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Bread Recipe
- Made with fresh garlic for bold flavor
- Crispy on the outside, soft and buttery inside
- Perfect as a side dish for pasta, soups, or salads
- Ready in under 20 minutes
This is a classic recipe, but we’ll elevate it with a few pro tips straight from Nonna’s playbook.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this garlic bread recipe:
- 1 large French or Italian loaf (about 12 inches)
- 6 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
Garlic Bread Recipe Instructions
🕒 Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 10 minutes
🍽 Serves: 4 to 6
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until it forms a creamy spread. If you like a cheesy twist, fold in the Parmesan here.
Step 3: Slice the Bread
Cut the loaf in half horizontally. You can also slice it into 1-inch thick pieces if you prefer individual servings.
Step 4: Spread the Goodness
Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. For extra indulgence, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and a touch more Parmesan.
Step 5: Bake or Broil
- For softer garlic bread: Wrap the loaf in foil and bake for 10–12 minutes.
- For crispy edges: Open-face bake the bread (cut side up) for 8–10 minutes. Then broil for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Let it cool for a minute or two, then slice and serve while warm.
Tips for the Best Garlic Bread
- Use fresh garlic – Pre-minced versions lack the punch of freshly chopped cloves.
- Don’t skip the olive oil – It helps the butter spread smoothly and enhances flavor.
- Add herbs – Fresh parsley is traditional, but basil or oregano also works beautifully.
- Make it cheesy – Mozzarella or Asiago can be added before baking for extra richness.
Garlic Bread Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add shredded mozzarella before baking.
- Roasted Garlic Bread: Roast a head of garlic and use it in place of raw for a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Garlic Knots: Use pizza dough, tie into knots, brush with garlic butter, and bake.
- Vegan Garlic Bread: Substitute vegan butter and skip the cheese.
What to Serve With Garlic Bread
This garlic bread recipe pairs perfectly with:
- 🍝 Classic Spaghetti Bolognese
- 🍲 Creamy Tomato Basil Soup
- 🥗 Caesar Salad with Anchovy Dressing
- 🍷 A glass of Chianti or Merlot
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage: Wrap leftovers in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. For a quicker fix, toast in a skillet for crispy edges.
Freezing: You can freeze garlic bread before or after baking. Just wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
FAQs About Garlic Bread
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but fresh garlic offers more depth of flavor. Use 1 teaspoon garlic powder as a substitute for 3 cloves.
What’s the best bread for garlic bread?
Italian or French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior is ideal.
Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely. Air fry at 370°F for about 4–6 minutes until the butter melts and edges turn golden.
A Family Favorite That Never Gets Old
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need something to dunk into your bowl of soup, this garlic bread recipe will become your go-to. The aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the table.
Garlic Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- Here’s what you’ll need for this garlic bread recipe:
- 1 large French or Italian loaf about 12 inches
- 6 cloves of fresh garlic minced
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- In a bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until it forms a creamy spread. If you like a cheesy twist, fold in the Parmesan here.
- Step 3: Slice the Bread
- Cut the loaf in half horizontally. You can also slice it into 1-inch thick pieces if you prefer individual servings.
- Step 4: Spread the Goodness
- Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. For extra indulgence, sprinkle with red pepper flakes and a touch more Parmesan.
- Step 5: Bake or Broil
- For softer garlic bread: Wrap the loaf in foil and bake for 10–12 minutes.
- For crispy edges: Open-face bake the bread (cut side up) for 8–10 minutes. Then broil for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Step 6: Serve Hot
- Let it cool for a minute or two, then slice and serve while warm.
Notes
Use fresh garlic – Pre-minced versions lack the punch of freshly chopped cloves. Don’t skip the olive oil – It helps the butter spread smoothly and enhances flavor. Add herbs – Fresh parsley is traditional, but basil or oregano also works beautifully. Make it cheesy – Mozzarella or Asiago can be added before baking for extra richness.
