Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe
Soft in the center, crisp on the edges, and bursting with garlic butter in every bite — homemade garlic bread is one of the most satisfying side dishes you can make. It is simple, quick, and filled with comfort. Whether you are serving pasta, soup, or a light salad, this warm, toasty bread adds flavor and heartiness to any meal.
The best garlic bread always starts with quality ingredients. Crusty bread like French baguette or Italian loaf works best. Combine it with real butter, fresh garlic, and a sprinkle of herbs, and you have a side dish that is both humble and rich. Unlike frozen store-bought versions, making it from scratch gives you full control over the texture, flavor, and intensity of the garlic.
Homemade garlic bread fills your kitchen with a buttery, savory aroma that draws everyone to the table. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests. You can prepare it in advance, pop it in the oven just before serving, and enjoy warm slices with melty, garlicky goodness in every bite. Once you try it homemade, you may never reach for a packaged version again.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a table listing the ingredients along with their approximate calorie counts.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| French bread loaf (12-inch) | 1 | 800 |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | 1/2 cup | 800 |
| Fresh garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | 18 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 2 tablespoons | 2 |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | 0 |
| Grated parmesan (optional) | 1/4 cup | 110 |
Estimated Total Calories (whole loaf): ~1850
(Serves approximately 8 slices)
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup. Slice the loaf in half lengthwise, exposing the soft inner surface.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, and salt. If you enjoy a deeper flavor, let the mixture sit for a few minutes so the garlic infuses into the butter.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread. Be generous so that each slice comes out rich and flavorful. If you like extra crisp edges, make sure to cover the corners thoroughly.
Place the bread halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the butter has melted and soaked into the bread. For a crisper top, switch to broil mode for the final 1 to 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm. If you want a cheesy version, sprinkle parmesan on top before baking or melt mozzarella on top during the last few minutes in the oven.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
You can play around with the herbs and seasoning to make this garlic bread your own. Try mixing in fresh basil, oregano, or thyme for more complexity. Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick or lemon zest for a fresh twist.
Roasting the garlic before mixing it with butter adds sweetness and a mellow flavor. Simply wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast at 400 degrees for about 30 minutes until soft. Mash and stir into the butter for a smoother texture and deeper flavor.
For extra crunch, lightly toast the bread before adding the butter mixture. Want to go dairy-free? Use a vegan butter substitute or olive oil alone, though the flavor will differ slightly.
Garlic bread is also great with add-ons. Spread pesto on the loaf before baking for a herby punch or top with sun-dried tomatoes and olives for a Mediterranean flair.
Nutritional Information
Each slice (1 of 8) contains approximately:
- Calories: 231
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Protein: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 180mg
Homemade garlic bread is indulgent but wholesome when enjoyed in moderation. Using real ingredients makes it more satisfying and flavorful compared to many packaged options.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic bread is most often served with pasta, but it pairs just as well with creamy soups like tomato, potato leek, or butternut squash. Use it to soak up leftover sauces or serve it alongside grilled vegetables or protein.
For a fun twist, cut the loaf into cubes after baking and serve as croutons over Caesar salad or soup. You can also use garlic bread to make mini sandwiches or sliders with roasted vegetables or sliced meat.
To make ahead, prepare the bread with butter and wrap it tightly in foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to one month. Bake directly from frozen at 375 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes.
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Conclusion
Homemade garlic bread is more than just a side dish. It brings warmth and comfort to any meal with its crisp edges, rich garlic flavor, and buttery goodness. Simple to make and always appreciated, it turns everyday meals into something special.
Once you start baking your own, it becomes a regular part of your table. It is a recipe that fits weeknights and weekends alike, always delivering flavor that friends and family will love.