Crusty Garlic Bread

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Golden, crispy, and impossibly buttery—this Crusty Garlic Bread is my go-to side whenever I need something quick yet delicious to round out a meal. I’ve made it for everything from cozy family dinners to big holiday gatherings, and it never fails to be the first thing gone from the table. What makes this garlic bread special is how easy it is to make while tasting like it came from a restaurant kitchen.

The aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s baking—roasted garlic, toasted bread, and fresh herbs—is just irresistible. I love that it uses simple ingredients I usually have on hand, but when they come together, they transform into something so much more than the sum of their parts. Whether you’re serving pasta, soup, or just snacking, this garlic bread delivers big flavor with barely any effort.

Why You’ll Love This Crusty Garlic Bread

It’s all about texture and taste. The outside of the bread turns perfectly crispy, while the inside stays soft and pillowy. The garlic butter mixture soaks into the bread just enough to make every bite rich and flavorful without being greasy. And since it comes together in about 15 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights or last-minute hosting.

What Kind of Bread Should I Use for Crusty Garlic Bread?

A hearty French or Italian loaf works best—something with a sturdy crust that can hold up to the buttery topping without getting soggy. I personally love using a day-old baguette or rustic sourdough for that extra crunch and chew. Avoid very soft sandwich bread as it won’t get the same golden crust.

Options for Substitutions

If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder will do the trick in a pinch (about 1 tsp per clove). No parsley? Try using fresh basil or oregano for a different herbal twist. You can even make it dairy-free by swapping the butter with olive oil or a vegan butter spread. And for a cheesy upgrade, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan over the top before baking.

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Ingredients for this Crusty Garlic Bread

• French or Italian Bread – A sturdy, crusty loaf is ideal to soak in the garlic butter without falling apart.
• Unsalted Butter – Softened to room temperature so it’s easy to mix and spread; it adds richness and helps the bread crisp up.
• Fresh Garlic – Minced or finely grated for a bold, aromatic flavor that defines garlic bread.
• Fresh Parsley – Chopped parsley adds freshness, color, and a slight herbal note.
• Salt – Just a pinch enhances the garlic and butter flavors.
• Olive Oil (optional) – A small drizzle adds depth and helps the top brown beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (optional) – For an extra savory, cheesy bite if you want to take it to the next level.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup. If you’re making a large batch, use two trays to avoid overcrowding.

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Step 2: Cut the Bread

Slice your loaf in half lengthwise, then into smaller slices if desired. You can also keep it whole and slice after baking for a more rustic look. The important thing is to expose the soft interior for the garlic butter to soak in.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter

In a bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix until it becomes a smooth, spreadable blend. If using Parmesan or olive oil, mix them in now.

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Step 4: Spread Generously

Using a spoon or spatula, spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each slice or half of the bread. Make sure to get all the way to the edges for maximum flavor in every bite.

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Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Place the bread, buttered side up, onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the butter is melted and the edges start to turn golden. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes—but watch closely to prevent burning.

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Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it cool for 1–2 minutes. Slice into desired portions and serve warm. The texture should be crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with flavor.

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How Long to Prepare Crusty Garlic Bread

Making Crusty Garlic Bread is quick and convenient. The total process takes about 15–20 minutes from start to finish, including both prep and baking time. It’s an ideal last-minute side dish that won’t hold up your meal.

Preparation Time: It takes about 5–7 minutes to slice the bread, mix the garlic butter, and spread it on the loaf.

Baking Time: You’ll need around 10–12 minutes to bake the bread until golden and crispy. Add an extra 1–2 minutes if you want to broil for extra crunch on top.

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Tips for Perfect Crusty Garlic Bread

• Use room temperature butter for easy mixing and smooth spreading.
• Fresh garlic delivers the best flavor, but you can mellow it slightly by sautéing it in butter first.
• Add a touch of olive oil for better browning and a deeper flavor.
• Broil at the end to get that irresistible golden, crispy finish—but don’t walk away!
• For extra flair, sprinkle with chili flakes or herbs like oregano or thyme before baking.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using overly soft bread – This leads to soggy garlic bread. Choose firm, crusty loaves.
• Too much garlic – Fresh garlic is strong; use the right amount or roast it if you want it milder.
• Overbaking – It can dry out the bread quickly. Keep an eye on it and broil cautiously.
• Undermixing the butter – Make sure garlic and herbs are well incorporated so every bite is balanced.
• Forgetting to season – Even a little salt goes a long way in bringing out all the flavors.

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What to Serve With Crusty Garlic Bread?

1. Spaghetti Bolognese

The richness of meat sauce pairs beautifully with garlicky, buttery bread.

2. Tomato Basil Soup

Dunking garlic bread into this classic soup is pure comfort food heaven.

3. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

The crisp bread adds crunch and a garlicky kick to a hearty salad.

4. Creamy Alfredo Pasta

Balance the creamy sauce with the texture of crispy garlic bread.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Pair it with a tray of roasted seasonal veggies for a satisfying vegetarian combo.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Crusty Garlic Bread is best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to regain crispness.

Refrigeration: Not recommended, as it may make the bread rubbery. If necessary, wrap tightly in foil and warm it in a low oven to revive the texture.

Freezing: You can freeze unbaked garlic bread. Prepare it as usual, wrap in foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 400°F for 15–20 minutes.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per slice (based on standard serving with butter, garlic, and parsley):

• Calories: ~160
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 17g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 220mg
• Cholesterol: 20mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep garlic bread from getting soggy?

Use crusty bread and don’t overload with butter. Bake at a high temperature so the top crisps up before it soaks in too much.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder in place of each garlic clove. It’s a handy shortcut when you’re in a rush.

How do I reheat garlic bread?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5–8 minutes until warm and crisp. Avoid microwaving—it makes the bread chewy.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the buttered bread and refrigerate it unbaked. Pop it in the oven when ready to serve.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Just make sure the butter you use doesn’t contain animal rennet if you’re strictly vegetarian.

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Conclusion

Crusty Garlic Bread is the kind of side that turns any meal into something memorable. It’s incredibly simple to make, yet it adds such a satisfying, savory element to whatever you’re serving. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just need a quick fix to go with soup or salad, this garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. Once you master this basic version, you can tweak it endlessly with cheese, herbs, or spice for your own signature twist.

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