Description
Get ready to fall in love with this Crusty Garlic Bread! It’s quick to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and the perfect side for any meal. This easy recipe combines a crunchy golden crust with a soft, buttery garlic center—making it a hit for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or last-minute hosting. Ideal as a quick appetizer, a side to pasta or soup, or even a snack, it’s one of those must-know food ideas that you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re searching for breakfast ideas, easy dinner sides, or just a reliable go-to, this easy recipe has you covered.
Ingredients
1 loaf French or Italian bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Slice the loaf in half lengthwise. For easier serving, you can also cut it into smaller sections.
3. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Add olive oil and Parmesan if using.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread, reaching the edges for full flavor.
5. Place the bread on the baking sheet, buttered side up. Bake for 10–12 minutes until golden. Broil for an additional 1–2 minutes if extra crispiness is desired.
6. Remove from the oven, cool slightly, slice if needed, and serve warm.
Notes
Always use crusty bread like French or Italian loaves for the best texture—soft bread won’t hold up.
Room temperature butter makes mixing and spreading much easier and more even.
Watch the broiler carefully to avoid burning the garlic; a minute too long can ruin the whole batch!
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg