Name: Irresistibly Buttery BEST Garlic Bread You'll Crave Again
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 28 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf Soft French Bread (14 to 16 ounces) (Can substitute with Italian bread or ciabatta.); 3/4 cup Unsalted Butter (Adjust salt if using salted butter.); 4 cloves Garlic, finely minced (Use fresh garlic for best flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Salt (Skip if using salted butter.); 1 tablespoon Dried Parsley Flakes (Italian seasoning can be substituted.); Mozzarella or Parmesan Cheese (Optional, for a cheesy twist.); Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, for a spicy kick.); Italian Seasoning (Optional, for an herby flavor.)

As I pulled the warm, golden loaf from the oven, an enticing aroma filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to family dinners where garlic bread reigned supreme. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for the BEST Garlic Bread, a semi-homemade delight that’s easy to whip up and wonderfully budget-friendly. This dish not only promises buttery richness and a crispy crust but features a delectably gooey center that’s perfect for scooping up your favorite sauces or enjoying on its own. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta or serving it as a snack, this garlic bread is bound to impress family and friends alike. Curious about how to customize this classic recipe with cheese or spices? Let’s dive in!

Why is this garlic bread a must-try?

Irresistible aroma: The enticing scent of garlic bread fresh from the oven fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia, making it hard to resist.
Customizable delight: Feel free to elevate your garlic bread with variations like added cheese or spices, ensuring each bite is uniquely yours.
Quick and easy: This semi-homemade recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests, delivering fantastic flavor without fuss!
Budget-friendly treat: Using simple ingredients, you can whip up this gourmet dish without breaking the bank, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality bread at home.
Perfect for sharing: Serve alongside your favorite pasta dish or as a party appetizer; it’s sure to be the star of the meal!

BEST Garlic Bread Ingredients

• Perfect for a flavorful experience.

For the Bread

Soft French Bread (14 to 16-ounce loaf) – The essential base for your garlic bread; can swap with Italian bread or ciabatta for a different vibe.

For the Garlic Butter

Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup) – Delivers richness and moisture; if you’re using salted butter, adjust the salt accordingly.
Garlic (4 large cloves, finely minced) – This main flavoring agent transforms the butter into a garlicky delight; always opt for fresh garlic for the best taste.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances the overall flavor; skip it if using salted butter.
Dried Parsley Flakes (1 tablespoon) – Adds a pop of color and subtle herb flavor; feel free to substitute with Italian seasoning for an extra herby kick.

For Variations

Mozzarella or Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle on top for a cheesy twist, transforming it into a gooey delight.
Red Pepper Flakes – A sprinkle before baking adds a spicy kick for those who love some heat.
Italian Seasoning – Mix in for an herby flavor profile that elevates the garlic bread experience.

This BEST garlic bread recipe is incredibly versatile and inviting, ready to be customized just the way you like it!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BEST Garlic Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While waiting for it to heat, line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch any drips. This preparation sets the stage for baking your BEST Garlic Bread, ensuring it cooks evenly and is easy to clean up afterward.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Next, slice your soft French bread in half horizontally. Place the two halves cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. This will allow the garlic butter to soak in beautifully, resulting in a crispy exterior and a delectably soft interior as it bakes.

Step 3: Melt the Butter
In a small saucepan, melt 3/4 cup of unsalted butter over low heat. Once fully melted, add in 4 finely minced garlic cloves. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the garlic steep in the warm butter for about 3 minutes, releasing its fragrant aroma. This step elevates the flavor of your BEST Garlic Bread.

Step 4: Mix in Seasonings
Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of dried parsley flakes into the melted garlic butter. This adds depth and a pop of color to the mixture. Use a spoon or a pastry brush to fully incorporate these ingredients, ensuring every dab of butter is well-seasoned and flavorful for the bread.

Step 5: Coat the Bread
Generously coat the cut sides of the bread with the garlic butter mixture. Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to spread the buttery goodness evenly. Make sure to cover every bit of surface area as this will ensure that each bite of your BEST Garlic Bread is filled with rich flavor.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid burning. For an extra crispy finish, you can place it under the broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely for perfect crispiness.

Step 7: Slice and Serve
Once your garlic bread is beautifully golden and crispy, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice the bread into individual servings while it’s warm, allowing the aroma to waft through your kitchen. Serve immediately, either plain or with marinara sauce for dipping, and enjoy the delightful flavors of your BEST Garlic Bread!

Storage Tips for BEST Garlic Bread

Room Temperature: Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its texture without drying out.

Fridge: For longer storage, refrigerate wrapped garlic bread for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to regain that crispy texture.

Freezer: Freeze the garlic bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Simply bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Enjoy your BEST Garlic Bread anytime!

Expert Tips for the BEST Garlic Bread

Steep the Garlic: Letting the minced garlic steep in melted butter enhances the overall flavor; don’t rush this step for maximum aroma and taste.
Right Bread Choice: Opt for a soft French bread for that perfect texture. Avoid using overly crusty bread that might not soak up the garlic butter as well.
Watch the Broiler: If broiling for extra crispiness, keep a close eye on your garlic bread; it can go from perfect to burnt very quickly!
Customize to Taste: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, like mozzarella cheese or red pepper flakes. Just remember that too much may overpower the garlic flavor.
Serve Warm: For the best experience, slice and serve this BEST Garlic Bread warm, allowing the buttery, gooey goodness to shine through with each bite!

BEST Garlic Bread Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this scrumptious garlic bread recipe and tailor it to your taste buds!

Cheesy Delight: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a gooey, cheesy twist that takes flavor to the next level.
The warmth of the bread will melt the cheese, creating a heavenly topping that’s simply irresistible.
Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes onto the garlic butter mixture before baking.
This simple addition adds a delightful kick that enhances the overall flavor, making each bite exciting.
Herbed Goodness: Stir in Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil and oregano instead of parsley for an aromatic twist.
These herbs elevate the flavor profile, making your garlic bread even more delightful and fragrant.
Garlic Lovers: If you can’t get enough garlic, double the amount for an intense, bold garlic flavor.
This variation is a real treat for true garlic lovers and will guarantee a mouthwatering experience.
Lemon Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the garlic butter for a refreshing citrusy note.
This brightens the flavor and gives your garlic bread a unique twist that’s both refreshing and delicious.
Nutty Texture: Incorporate some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts into the garlic butter for added texture and flavor.
This will create a delightful crunch and make your garlic bread even more appealing, both in taste and presentation.
Sweet & Savory: For a unique twist, drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the garlic bread before serving.
The sweetness balances the garlic, creating a tantalizing sweet-savory experience that’s surprisingly delightful.
Vegetable Boost: Top with sautéed spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a veggie-packed variation that adds color and nutrition.
This not only enhances the flavor but also makes your garlic bread more of a wholesome treat perfect for sides or snacks.

Feel free to explore these variations to create your perfect loaf! And if you want even more delightful bread recipes, check out my Chocolate Zucchini Bread, Cranberry Zucchini Bread, and Cream Cheese Bread. Enjoy!

Make Ahead Options

These BEST garlic bread are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the garlic butter mixture up to 24 hours in advance by melting the butter and stirring in the minced garlic, salt, and parsley, then refrigerating it. Additionally, you can slice the bread and store it tightly wrapped at room temperature for a few hours, ensuring it stays fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy your garlic bread, simply spread the prepared garlic butter on the bread, bake it as instructed (adding a couple of extra minutes if using it straight from the fridge), and savor the deliciousness just as if it were freshly made!

What to Serve with The BEST Garlic Bread

Imagine gathering around the table, where the aroma of freshly baked garlic bread invites lively conversation and laughter.

Pasta Primavera: A colorful medley of fresh vegetables tossed in olive oil, perfectly harmonizes with the rich, buttery flavors of garlic bread. The lightness of the dish makes each bite refreshing.
Classic Marinara Sauce: Whether used for dipping or drizzled, this tangy sauce elevates your garlic bread experience, enhancing the garlicky goodness with its robust tomato flavor.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing add a cool contrast to the warm, decadent garlic bread, making for a balanced meal that’s sure to please.
Grilled Chicken: Juicy, herb-marinated chicken provides a heartier option that complements the garlic bread’s buttery crispiness, making for a satisfying dinner.
Herbed Potato Wedges: The earthy taste of crispy roasted potatoes accentuates the garlic flavor, turning an ordinary meal into a feast you won’t forget.
Homemade Tomato Soup: Dipping your garlic bread into a warm, velvety soup creates a comforting combination that invokes cozy memories of childhood meals.
Chardonnay or Italian Red Wine: A glass of crisp Chardonnay perfectly matches the richness of garlic bread, while a bold Italian red wine pairs beautifully with its garlicky notes.
Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a gooey, warm chocolate cake that’s a delightful contrast to the savory garlic bread, ensuring a sweet finish to your meal.

The BEST Garlic Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best garlic for my garlic bread?
Absolutely! Fresh garlic is key to achieving the best flavor in your garlic bread. Look for firm cloves with no dark spots or sprouting; these indicate freshness. If you can find it, try using organic garlic for even more robust flavor.

How should I store leftover garlic bread?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store the garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture before enjoying!

Can I freeze garlic bread, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! Wrap your garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, then freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 18-20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy. This way, you always have delicious garlic bread ready!

What should I do if my garlic bread is soggy?
If you find your garlic bread is soggy, it may be due to excessive butter or not baking long enough. Next time, try reducing the butter slightly and make sure to bake it until the edges are golden brown. If it’s already soggy, pop it back in the oven on a low heat (around 300°F/150°C) for 5-8 minutes to help evaporate some of the moisture.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Indeed! If you’re serving this garlic bread to guests, remember that those with dairy allergies should avoid the butter, while vegans can substitute it with a plant-based butter option for an equally delectable treat. Just ensure any added cheese is dairy-free if needed!

How do I make cheesy garlic bread?
To transform your BEST Garlic Bread into a cheesy delight, simply sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top after applying the garlic butter. Bake as usual, and for an extra touch, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Enjoy this easy variation that cheese lovers will adore!