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The Best Garlic Bread You’ll Ever Eat Recipe

5 from 111 reviews

A classic and irresistible garlic bread recipe featuring a crusty Italian or French loaf slathered with a flavorful blend of softened butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, and sea salt. This easy-to-make garlic bread is baked to golden perfection with optional cheese toppings like parmesan or mozzarella for extra indulgence, perfect as a side or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 pound Italian loaf or French loaf
  • 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter (can also use salted)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
  • ⅛ teaspoon sea salt

Optional Cheese Toppings

  • ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • OR
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For Garnishing

  • Extra parsley
  • Chives

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Bread: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for an easy cleanup. Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place the cut sides facing up on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Make Garlic Butter Mixture: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter, finely minced garlic, fresh chopped parsley, and sea salt. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated into a uniform garlic butter spread.
  3. Spread Garlic Butter on Bread: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread, making sure each half is generously covered for full flavor.
  4. Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet with the bread in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the edges of the bread begin to turn golden brown.
  5. Add Cheese (Optional): If you wish to add cheese, sprinkle either parmesan or mozzarella on the bread during the last 2 minutes of baking to allow it to melt perfectly without burning.
  6. Optional Crisping: For a crispier texture, bake the bread an additional 3 to 5 minutes, watching carefully to reach your desired golden and crunchiness level.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the garlic bread from the oven, garnish with extra fresh parsley and chives for a fresh aroma and appealing presentation. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

  • You can substitute the Italian or French loaf with a baguette for smaller servings.
  • Using salted butter will reduce or eliminate the need for additional sea salt based on taste preference.
  • For a dairy-free option, replace butter with vegan butter and omit cheese.
  • Adjust garlic quantity according to your preference for more or less intense garlic flavor.
  • If you prefer a softer garlic bread, reduce baking time slightly.
  • Keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking to avoid burning the garlic or cheese.

Keywords: garlic bread, garlic butter bread, Italian bread, side dish, baked bread, easy garlic bread, cheesy garlic bread