Garlic bread is one of those universally loved side dishes that seems to make everything better. Whether you’re preparing a comforting Italian meal, a hearty soup, or even a casual appetizer platter, a warm slice of buttery, golden garlic bread elevates the entire experience.
This simple yet delicious recipe will teach you how to make homemade garlic bread from scratch, using just a handful of pantry ingredients. You’ll also learn different ways to serve and customize your garlic bread for various occasions, including links to recipes that pair beautifully with it.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Garlic Bread (Serves 4–6)
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 loaf of Italian bread or French baguette (about 14–16 inches long)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large garlic cloves, finely minced (or 1 tablespoon of garlic paste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped finely
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- A pinch of chili flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- A handful of grated mozzarella (optional for cheesy garlic bread)
How to Make Garlic Bread: Step-by-Step
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a countertop oven or convection appliance, check periodically and adjust the cooking time or heat level to avoid overbaking.
Prepare the Bread
Cut the loaf in half lengthwise. Position both halves on a baking sheet with the inner sides facing upward.
Make the Garlic Butter
In a separate bowl, stir together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and any additional seasonings like oregano or chili flakes. Mix until it forms a smooth, flavorful spread.
Apply the Butter Mixture
Use a butter knife or spatula to coat the open side of each bread half with the garlic spread. Make sure the coating is consistent so each bite has a balanced flavor.
Add Cheese (Optional)
Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan if you prefer a cheesy version.
Bake to Perfection
Place the tray in the oven and bake for 10–12 minutes, until the edges become slightly crisp and the butter starts to soak into the bread. For more crunch, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end—keep a close watch to prevent burning.
What to Serve with Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with countless dishes. For a full Italian experience, serve it alongside Homemade Spaghetti Sauce and Hearty Italian Meatballs. The bread works perfectly to mop up rich tomato sauces and adds a savory contrast to the tender meatballs.
You can also serve it with pasta recipes like Baked Ziti with Sausage or try your hand at a homemade pasta dish using How to Make Homemade Pasta. The fresh pasta and garlic bread combination is a dinner-party winner.
For a lighter option, pair garlic bread with soups such as Easy Tomato Basil Soup. The bread’s crunch and garlicky flavor enhance the simplicity of a warm bowl of soup.
Flavor Variations and Customizations
This recipe serves as a base you can tweak to suit your taste. Here are some great ways to switch things up:
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add shredded mozzarella or a mix of cheeses on top before baking.
- Garlic Herb Butter: Use this Savory Herb Butter Recipe for an herbaceous flavor boost.
- Extra Garlic Kick: Use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste or double the fresh garlic for a bold, pungent flavor.
- Spicy Garlic Bread: Add red pepper flakes or finely chopped chili peppers for heat.
- Healthier Option: Substitute butter with olive oil and reduce the cheese.
For a complete plant-based dinner, you might also enjoy serving it alongside this refreshing spinach and strawberry salad.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Although best when served fresh, you can still save leftovers:
- To store: Place cooled garlic bread in a resealable plastic bag or wrap tightly in foil to keep it fresh for up to 2 days at room temperature.
- To reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Skip the microwave, as it tends to soften the crust and ruin the texture.
- To freeze: Wrap the unbaked, buttered bread in aluminum foil and freeze. When ready, bake straight from the freezer and extend the time slightly until golden and hot.
Conclusion
Homemade garlic bread is quick, customizable, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it with pasta, soups, or enjoy it as a snack, this recipe ensures a perfect balance of garlicky flavor, crisp edges, and buttery softness every time.
For a restaurant-style meal right in your kitchen, consider pairing it with recipes like Homemade Spaghetti Sauce and Baked Ziti with Sausage. Or take it up a notch with homemade noodles using How to Make Homemade Pasta.
Now that you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll never go back to store-bought garlic bread again.