You won't believe what secret ingredient makes this Garlic Bread irresistible!

The Best Garlic Bread Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Guide

Garlic bread is the ultimate comfort food, loved by people of all ages across the United States. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, garlic bread always brings joy to the table. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make the best garlic bread from scratch, with simple ingredients and easy steps.

Get ready for a crispy, buttery, and garlicky treat that will leave everyone asking for more.

Ingredients for Garlic Bread

1 loaf of French bread (or Italian bread)
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
4-6 cloves garlic, finely minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)

How to Make Garlic Bread at Home: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the garlic bread will bake evenly and become beautifully crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. If you like a little extra kick, add the crushed red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture until well blended.

Step 3: Slice the Bread

Cut the loaf of French bread (or Italian bread) in half lengthwise. You can also slice it into individual pieces if you prefer small servings.

Step 4: Spread the Garlic Butter

Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Be sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Bake the Garlic Bread

Place the bread on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake it in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Optional Topping

For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter before baking. This step adds a delicious layer of flavor that takes your garlic bread to the next level.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice it into individual pieces and serve while it's warm and fragrant. Your homemade garlic bread is now ready to be enjoyed!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, spread it on the bread and follow the baking instructions.

2. Can I use a different type of bread for garlic bread?

Yes, while French bread is traditional, you can also use Italian bread, baguette, or even sourdough for a unique twist.

3. How can I store leftover garlic bread?

To store leftover garlic bread, wrap it in foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap it in foil and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.