Description
This homemade garlic bread features a crispy, buttery exterior infused with fresh garlic and parsley, making it an ideal side dish or appetizer. Easy to prepare and sure to impress, it’s perfect for pairing with pasta or salads.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 large loaf of Italian bread (or French bread)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a cheesy twist)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, add the softened butter.
- Add the minced garlic to the bowl.
- Sprinkle in the finely chopped parsley.
- Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix until well combined.
- If desired, fold in the grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the loaf of Italian bread in half lengthwise using a serrated knife.
- Place the halves cut-side up on a baking sheet. Optionally, line the baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
- Use any leftover garlic butter on the edges or save it for another use.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the butter is bubbly.
- For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the garlic bread cool for a minute.
- Cut the bread into individual slices, about 1-inch thick.
- Transfer the slices to a serving platter and garnish with extra parsley if desired.
- Serve warm alongside your favorite pasta dish, salad, or as an appetizer.
Notes
- For a twist, try adding different herbs like oregano or basil to the garlic butter.
- This garlic bread can be frozen before baking. Just wrap it tightly in foil and bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes