Description
This Great Garlic Bread recipe offers a deliciously crispy and buttery treat infused with fresh garlic and parsley, perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or salads. With a simple blend of softened butter, garlic, herbs, and optional Parmesan cheese, this easy-to-make bread is baked to golden perfection and served warm for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 baguette or loaf of Italian bread
Garlic Butter Spread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the garlic bread evenly and achieve a golden, crisp finish.
- Slice Bread: Cut the baguette or Italian loaf lengthwise in half to create two flat surfaces for the garlic butter spread.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful spread.
- Spread Garlic Butter: Evenly distribute the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread halves, ensuring full coverage for maximum taste.
- Add Parmesan (Optional): Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the buttered bread if desired, adding a savory and slightly nutty flavor profile.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet with the buttered side facing up to allow the butter to melt and the bread to toast crisply.
- Bake Bread: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until the bread is golden brown and crisp. For extra crispiness, optionally broil for 1-2 minutes while monitoring closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from oven, slice into serving pieces, and serve warm for the best aromatic and savory experience.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic and parsley for the most vibrant flavor.
- Adjust garlic quantity according to your preference for garlickiness.
- Broiling is optional but recommended for a crispier crust.
- For a richer flavor, consider substituting some or all of the butter with garlic-infused olive oil.
- Keep an eye on the bread while broiling to prevent burning due to quick cooking times.
