Name: The Best Garlic Bread
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 (14 to 16-ounce) loaf soft French bread; 3/4 cup unsalted butter; 4 large cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes

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why make this recipe

This garlic bread is simple, fast, and full of flavor. It uses basic ingredients you likely have at home. It crisps on the outside and stays soft inside, so it pairs well with soups, pasta, and salads.

introduction

This easy garlic bread recipe makes a warm, buttery side in about 20 minutes. It works with a store-bought French loaf and uses few steps. If you want a hearty main dish to go with it, try this best smothered chicken and rice for an easy combo.

how to make The BEST Garlic Bread

Follow the simple steps below to make golden, garlic butter bread at home. For a different form of garlic bread, see the garlic bread rolls version.

Ingredients :

1 (14 to 16-ounce) loaf soft French bread
3/4 cup unsalted butter
4 large cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes

Directions :

Preheat oven to 400°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise and place cut sides facing up on the baking sheet.
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and let steep for about 3 minutes. Stir in salt and parsley until combined.
Generously brush the garlic butter mixture onto the cut sides of the bread.
Bake for approximately 15 minutes until golden brown; broil for an additional 2–3 minutes for extra crispiness.
Slice into pieces and serve warm.

how to serve The BEST Garlic Bread

Serve warm right after baking. Put it next to pasta, soup, or a salad. For a party, cut the loaf into small pieces and place them in a basket with napkins.

how to store The BEST Garlic Bread

Wrap leftover bread in foil or place in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes, or until warm. For longer storage, freeze in a sealed bag for up to 2 months and reheat from frozen.

tips to make The BEST Garlic Bread

Use soft room-temperature butter for easy mixing and even spreading.
Mince garlic fine so it mixes well into the butter and does not leave big bites.
Let the garlic steep in the butter on low heat, do not brown it; browned garlic can taste bitter.
If you like extra herb flavor, add a pinch of dried oregano or basil.
Watch the broiler closely for the last 2–3 minutes to avoid burning.

variation (if any)

Cheese garlic bread: sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top before the last 2 minutes of broiling.
Herby garlic bread: add fresh chopped parsley or basil after baking.
Spicy garlic bread: mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the butter.

FAQs

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: Yes. If you use salted butter, reduce or skip the added salt.

Q: Can I make this with a different bread?
A: Yes. A sourdough or Italian loaf works fine. Baking time may change slightly.

Q: How do I make this dairy-free?
A: Use a plant-based butter and follow the same method.

Q: Can I make the garlic butter ahead?
A: Yes. Keep the garlic butter in the fridge up to 3 days. Warm slightly before brushing on bread.

Q: Is it safe to broil with foil on the pan?
A: Yes. Use heavy-duty foil and keep the oven door open enough to watch the bread while broiling.

Conclusion

For another great garlic bread take, see this recipe: The Best Garlic Bread You’ll Ever Eat | Ambitious Kitchen.