What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade garlic bread is crispy, buttery, and packed with garlic flavor—perfect for any meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make with just a few simple ingredients.
- Quick and easy—ready in under 20 minutes, with no fancy techniques needed.
- Perfectly crispy—golden edges with a soft, garlicky center every time.
- Customizable—add herbs, cheese, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor.
Recipe
Intro
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads. This simple recipe delivers crispy, buttery bread infused with garlic and herbs for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the bread in half lengthwise.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano (if using).
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Place bread on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw.
- Fresh herbs provide the best taste, but dried herbs can be substituted in a pinch.
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Knife
- Cutting board
Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
Cuisine
Italian
Serving
4-6 people
Nutrition
Understanding the nutritional content of homemade garlic bread helps in making informed dietary choices. Here is the breakdown:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Total Fat | 9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 300 mg |
| Total Carbs | 20 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Protein | 5 g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade garlic bread with pasta dishes, like spaghetti or fettuccine alfredo, because it soaks up the sauce perfectly. It’s also amazing paired with a warm bowl of soup, whether it’s tomato basil or a creamy broccoli cheddar. Trust me, these combos turn a simple meal into something special.
Pasta Pairings
When I’m planning a meal, I always think about how flavors and textures can complement each other, and that’s why pairing garlic bread with pasta feels like a no-brainer. The crispy, buttery bread balances creamy sauces like Alfredo or carbonara, while its garlicky punch cuts through rich tomato-based dishes. For lighter options, like pesto or olive oil-based pasta, garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch without overpowering. I love serving it with spaghetti and meatballs—it’s perfect for soaking up extra sauce. No matter the pasta, garlic bread turns a simple dish into a hearty, comforting meal. Trust me, it’s a match made in heaven.
Soup Combinations
Nothing warms you up like a bowl of soup, but pairing it with the right side can turn a simple meal into something special. I love serving my homemade garlic bread with a creamy tomato soup; the crunch and garlic flavor balance the richness perfectly. For heartier soups like chicken noodle or minestrone, the bread adds a satisfying bite. A buttery, cheesy slice is also incredible with broccoli cheddar or French onion soup, soaking up every last drop. Sometimes, I’ll even toast it extra crispy for dipping into creamy clam chowder. It’s simple, but it makes every spoonful feel like a cozy hug.
