Garlic bread is a beloved side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals, especially pasta dishes. This recipe is quick and easy, taking only ten minutes to prepare and another ten minutes in the oven. With its buttery, garlicky flavor and optional addition of Parmesan cheese, this garlic bread is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this delicious garlic bread step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of Italian or French bread
- 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons minced parsley (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter until fully liquefied.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic, minced parsley (if using), salt, and black pepper to the melted butter. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice Bread: Slice the loaf of Italian or French bread in half lengthwise. Place the halves cut side up on a baking sheet.
- Spread Garlic Butter: Using a pastry brush or spoon, evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Add Cheese (Optional)
- Add Parmesan: If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the garlic butter-coated bread halves.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Step 5: Serve
- Slice and Serve: Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice the bread into serving pieces and serve warm. Enjoy your garlic bread with your favorite pasta dish or as a delicious appetizer.
Cooking Notes
- Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe. If using salted butter, you may want to reduce the added salt.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor. Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference.
- Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a rich, nutty flavor to the garlic bread. Feel free to omit it or substitute with another cheese like mozzarella for a different twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic? A: Yes, you can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of the 4 cloves of minced garlic.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy.
Q: Can I make this garlic bread ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the garlic bread ahead of time. Assemble the bread with the garlic butter and cheese, then wrap tightly in foil and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of garlic bread, follow these modifications:
- Bread: Use a keto-friendly bread or make your own using almond flour or coconut flour.
- Butter: Ensure the butter used is full-fat and free of added sugars.
- Cheese: Use Parmesan cheese or another low-carb cheese.
Garlic bread is a quick and easy side dish that enhances any meal with its savory and buttery flavors. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or as an appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious, homemade taste of garlic bread!
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