Simple Garlic Bread Recipe

Garlic bread is a classic side dish that can be enjoyed with virtually any meal! This easy-to-make recipe provides fresh, crispy garlic bread that complements both warm and cold dishes alike.

To make 8 slices of garlic bread, you'll only need five ingredients. The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Let's get started!

Ingredients

1 baguette loaf (about 6 inches thick)
4 tablespoons (57g) butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
A few dashes of salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Slice the baguette diagonally into 8 slices. Lay each slice flat on a cutting board, place about half a teaspoon of garlic butter on top, and sprinkle with some minced garlic, dried parsley, salt, and pepper.

Place all the prepared bread slices onto a parchment-lined baking sheet in one layer. Bake for 12 minutes or until the garlic bread is golden brown around the edges. Allow the garlic bread to cool slightly before serving.

Optional Variations

Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add about half a cup of shredded Parmesan cheese on top of each slice of garlic buttered bread.
Fresh Herb Garlic Bread: Substitute dried parsley with fresh chopped herbs like thyme or oregano.

Garlic bread is not only delicious but also very versatile. It pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes such as carbonara, fettuccine Alfredo, or even mac and cheese. For a lighter option, serve garlic bread alongside chicken salad sandwiches for an added layer of flavor.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Bread

For the freshest flavor, use fresh butter instead of margarine; however, you can substitute half-and-half if needed.
Bake immediately after preparation to prevent the garlic from becoming bitter due to prolonged heat exposure.
Use a parchment paper that is slightly larger than your baking sheet. It makes it easier to slide the garlic bread out and onto your plate without breaking or tearing.

Dining Suggestions with Garlic Bread

Cutting a slice of garlic bread into pieces adds to its appeal when paired with various meals. Try serving it alongside sandwiches, burgers, or even as a dip for vegetables or nuts. You can also serve it on top of pizza before baking; this creates an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Storage and Reheating

Cooked garlic bread does not need to be refrigerated if served immediately after cooking. However, once the garlic bread is cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the garlic bread; simply slice and wrap each piece individually before placing them into a freezer bag or container.

To reheat garlic bread, either place slices directly from the freezer on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual slices for approximately 30 seconds at a time. Be cautious when microwaving; check the bread frequently to prevent overcooking which can lead to a tough texture.

Conclusion

p>Cooking homemade garlic bread is an excellent way to enhance your meal with a delightful side dish. Its simplicity and adaptability make it ideal for any occasion, whether you're hosting a small dinner party or just want to enjoy some comfort food at home. Enjoy your freshly baked garlic bread!