Homemade Garlic Bread is a delightful addition to any dinner table, filling your kitchen with its tempting aroma as it bakes. After testing this recipe multiple times, I’ve perfected the balance between buttery richness and garlicky punch. Each slice, with its crispy edges and soft center, melts in your mouth. Pair it with a hearty pasta dish or a warming soup for a truly comforting meal. For a more flavorful experience, check out my Creamy Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet!
About Homemade Garlic Bread
This Homemade Garlic Bread is not just a side dish but a beloved household favorite. I tested it during cozy family dinners and even while hosting friends on a budget. It proves to be an approachable recipe that elevates ordinary meals into something memorable.
- Quick to prepare – perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Budget-friendly – using just a few simple ingredients.
- Family favorite – its comforting flavors are sure to please everyone.
- Garlic’s cultural significance: In many cuisines, garlic not only adds flavor but is also celebrated for its health benefits.
Key Ingredients & Their Roles
- French or Italian bread: This is the base for our garlic bread; consider a crusty baguette for an extra crunch.
- Butter: Adds richness and ensures the garlic mixture spreads smoothly.
- Olive oil: Infuses a subtle flavor while helping to achieve golden edges.
- Garlic: The star ingredient; always use fresh garlic for a more intense flavor.
How to Make Homemade Garlic Bread
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, chopped parsley, and salt. Stir until the mixture is creamy, with a few tiny chunks of butter left for texture.
- Slice the loaf in half lengthwise so you have two 12-inch pieces. Lay them cut-side up on a baking sheet to prepare for spreading.
- Generously spread the garlic butter mixture evenly across the open surfaces of the bread, making sure each bite will be flavorful.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes. The edges should turn golden brown and crispy. For softer garlic bread, keep the baking time shorter. Once done, cut into 2-inch sections and serve warm.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
- For a punchier garlic flavor, sauté the minced garlic in olive oil for a minute before mixing it with butter.
- A common mistake is overbaking; keep an eye on your bread to prevent it from becoming too hard.
- Feel free to add herbs such as oregano or basil for a seasonal variation, particularly in the summer.
- This recipe can easily be scaled. Just double the ingredients for a larger crowd without changing the method.
Storage & Make-Ahead Guide
Store leftover Homemade Garlic Bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, which restores its crispy texture. I found that freezing the bread makes it even tastier when reheated!
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Homemade Garlic Bread with a warm bowl of Chicken Soup or alongside a zesty Pasta Primavera. It’s the perfect accompaniment for almost any meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Homemade Garlic Bread ahead of time? Yes, prepare the garlic butter mixture and store it separately. Spread it on the bread just before baking.
- What type of bread works best? Use a crusty French or Italian loaf for an optimal texture.
- Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic? While you can, fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor that is hard to replicate.
- How do I make it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to your garlic butter mixture for some heat.
- What’s the best way to reheat frozen garlic bread? Bake in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Garlic Bread is a wonderfully simple, yet rich accompaniment. I love enjoying it with a fresh salad or a hearty stew. I invite you to try this recipe and savor the delicious results – it might just become your go-to favorite!
More Recipes You’ll Love
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Rice Skillet – pairs well for a comforting meal
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Meatloaf – shared garlic flavor for a satisfying dish
- Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Creamy Mashed Potatoes – a delicious combination of flavors to elevate your dinner
I’ve been using the CAROTE 44-piece cookware set for my recipes, and it’s been amazing. The nonstick coating works beautifully, heats evenly on induction, and cleans up fast. The elegant design, sturdy handles, and included knives make it a complete, reliable kitchen upgrade.
Homemade Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread approx. 24 inches long
- 6 Tbsp butter room temperature
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 Tbsp fresh parsley chopped
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400ºF. In a bowl, stir together the room-temperature butter, olive oil, minced garlic, garlic powder, chopped parsley, and salt until relatively smooth (a few small lumps of butter are okay).
- Cut the loaf in half, into two 12″ long pieces, then cut each piece open lengthwise. Lay the bread on a baking sheet cut sides facing up. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the open surfaces of the bread.
- Bake the bread for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Bake for less time if you prefer a softer garlic bread, and more time if you prefer a crispier garlic bread. Cut the bread into 2-inch sections and serve hot.