Deliciously Simple Garlic Bread Recipe

Tired of boring breadsticks? Try this easy garlic bread recipe for a tasty and versatile side dish that can be served hot out of the oven or cold as part of your next meal.

This garlic bread is quick to prepare, especially if you already have the basic ingredients in your pantry. You'll need just five common items: bread (like Italian or French), butter, olive oil, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

1 loaf of your favorite bread (approximately 40 slices)
8 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
6-8 cloves of garlic, minced or pressed
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: Approximately 4 slices per person for a total of 8 servings

Method and Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
While the oven is heating up, slice the bread into generous-sized pieces. You should aim for about 4 slices per person.
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter and olive oil until smooth.
Add the minced garlic and Parmesan cheese to the butter mixture. Stir well so that all the ingredients are evenly combined.
Brush both sides of each bread slice with the garlic butter mixture using a pastry brush or your fingers, ensuring an even spread over the entire surface.
If desired, you can sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and color. This step is optional but recommended if you want to enhance the cheesy taste of this bread.
Arrange the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Bake your garlic bread until golden brown and crispy, which usually takes around 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end of cooking time to prevent burning.
Once done, remove from the oven immediately. Allow it to cool for a few moments before serving if you prefer having softer bread.

Flavor Variations

You can customize this classic garlic bread recipe in various ways depending on your taste preferences:

Lemon Garlic Bread: Substitute the olive oil with lemon juice and add zest to intensify citrus flavors.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Double up on the amount of Parmesan or use other cheeses such as mozzarella or provolone for extra richness.
Bacon-Cheddar Garlic Bread: Crumble cooked bacon bits and mix into the butter before applying to the bread slices. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese at the end.

Perfect Pairings

This versatile garlic bread goes exceptionally well with a variety of dishes such as pasta, salads, soups, or simply enjoyed on its own as an appetizer. Here are some ideas to serve it with:

Pasta dishes like macaroni and cheese, spaghetti carbonara, or penne arrabbiata.
Salads including Caesar salad or Greek salad for a burst of flavor when paired together.
Soup options such as minestrone soup, chicken noodle soup, or vegetable broth.

Presentation Tips

To make your garlic bread look appealing on the table, you could arrange it artfully in a basket. This adds a rustic charm to any meal and makes serving convenient for everyone at the dining table. Alternatively, you can also slice it into individual portions and place them neatly on plates with accompanying sauces or dips.

Garlic bread is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet effortless. With this recipe, even beginners in the kitchen will find it easy to create a delightful accompaniment that elevates any meal. Try experimenting with different flavors and toppings to find your favorite version of this tasty bread.

Remember, the key to successful garlic bread lies in using high-quality ingredients. Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor, while good quality butter and Parmesan cheese contribute greatly to the overall taste. Don’t hesitate to get creative by adding other herbs or spices like rosemary, oregano, or chili flakes according to your liking.