Description
This garlic bread recipe delivers a perfectly crisp and buttery loaf infused with fresh garlic, herbs, and Parmesan cheese. Easy to prepare and quick to bake, it makes a deliciously savory side that's sure to complement any meal or be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter
- ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick), at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley or chives, plus more for garnish
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
Bread
- 1 (15-ounce) loaf French bread, or Italian bread or baguette
Toppings
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Flaky sea salt
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange an oven rack in the top third of the oven for optimal browning.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with finely chopped parsley or chives, grated garlic, and sea salt until well combined to form a flavorful garlic butter spread.
- Prepare Bread: Using a serrated knife, slice the loaf of bread lengthwise into two halves. Spread the garlic butter generously on the cut sides of both halves to ensure rich flavor in every bite.
- Bake Bread: Place the buttered bread halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Bake on the upper oven rack for 8 minutes to warm through and start crisping the surface.
- Broil to Finish: Switch the oven to broil and broil the bread for 2 to 5 minutes, watching closely, until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven carefully.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Immediately sprinkle the bread with grated Parmesan cheese, flaky sea salt, additional parsley for garnish, and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat. Slice and serve hot for best taste and texture.
Notes
- Using room temperature butter helps it mix easily with the garlic and herbs for an even spread.
- Keep a close eye during broiling to avoid burning the bread; broil times can vary depending on your oven.
- For extra cheesy garlic bread, add shredded mozzarella before the broiling step.
- Leftover garlic bread can be reheated in a toaster oven or oven to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian