How to make the best garlic bread

Garlic bread is a timeless favorite, a dish that transports you to cozy Italian kitchens and bustling family dinners. With its golden crust, aromatic garlic, and a sprinkle of cheese, it’s hard to resist a warm slice fresh from the oven. Today, I’m going to show you how to make the best garlic bread using a loaf of ciabatta bread or a large baguette. With just a few simple ingredients, you can elevate your meal or serve it as a delightful appetizer. Let’s get started!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This garlic bread recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. You’ll love how the buttery, garlicky goodness pairs perfectly with pasta, salads, or as a snack on its own. The addition of Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory depth of flavor, while the fresh parsley gives it a pop of color and freshness. Each bite is a delightful experience that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Shopping List

• 1 loaf of ciabatta bread or a large baguette
• 100 grams salted butter, softened to room temperature
• A small handful of parsley, finely chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, crushed
• 50 grams Parmesan cheese, grated (plus a bit extra to sprinkle over the loaf)
• A squeeze of lemon juice (optional)
• A pinch of salt (optional)

Equipment & Tools

• Baking Sheet: To place your garlic bread for baking.
• Mixing Bowl: For combining the garlic butter mixture.
• Knife: To slice the bread and spread the butter.
• Oven: To achieve that perfect golden crust.

How to make the best garlic bread in Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, crushed garlic, finely chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated. If you like a bit of extra flavor, you can add a pinch of salt, but be cautious as the Parmesan is salty on its own.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This temperature is ideal for achieving a crispy exterior while melting the butter and garlic mixture inside.

Step 3: Slice the Bread

Take your ciabatta or baguette and slice it in half lengthwise. If you prefer smaller pieces, you can slice them into smaller sections after spreading the butter.

Step 4: Spread the Garlic Butter

Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Add Extra Cheese

Sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan cheese over the spread butter for added cheesiness and flavor.

Step 6: Bake the Garlic Bread

Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and put it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Cut into slices and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade garlic bread as a side dish or snack!

Smart Substitutions

• Butter: Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a vegan option.
• Parsley: Swap for fresh basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
• Parmesan Cheese: Try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
• Garlic: Roasted garlic can be used for a sweeter, milder flavor.

Errors to Dodge

To ensure your garlic bread is perfect, avoid these common mistakes:

• Using cold butter: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy spreading.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the bread to prevent it from burning; you want it golden, not charred.
• Skipping the cheese: While the garlic butter is delicious on its own, the cheese adds a crucial flavor element.
• Not slicing deep enough: If you don’t slice the bread deep enough, the garlic butter won’t penetrate well, leading to uneven flavor.

Storage & Reheat Guide

If you have any leftover garlic bread (which is rare!), store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

To reheat, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the garlic bread for about 10 minutes until warmed through. You can also pop it in the toaster for a quick refresh!

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While ciabatta and baguette are fantastic choices, you can use any bread you like, such as sourdough or Italian bread.

Can I make this garlic bread ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread ahead of time. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best results.

How can I make garlic bread without butter?

You can substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. It will still be delicious and flavorful!

What do I serve garlic bread with?

Garlic bread pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, salads, soups, or can be enjoyed as a snack on its own. It’s a versatile side that complements many meals!

Explore More

• Sally’s Baking Addiction
• Pinch of Yum
• Minimalist Baker
• Food Network

That’s a Wrap

There you have it! This guide on how to make the best garlic bread is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With its irresistible aroma and mouthwatering flavors, this garlic bread is bound to impress. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty pasta dish or enjoying it on its own, one thing is for sure: you won’t be able to resist going back for seconds. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and dive into the delightful world of homemade garlic bread!