There’s nothing quite like the aroma of warm, buttery garlic bread fresh out of the oven. It fills the kitchen with a mouthwatering scent that makes everyone eager to grab a slice. Whether you’re serving it alongside a comforting pasta dish, a hearty soup, or as a simple appetizer, homemade garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser.

I remember the first time I made garlic bread from scratch—there was something so satisfying about mixing the garlic butter, slathering it onto fresh bread, and watching it turn golden and crispy in the oven. Store-bought garlic bread just can’t compare to the rich, garlicky flavor and the perfect balance of crunch and softness you get when you make it yourself. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare with just a handful of ingredients!

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to elevate your meal, this homemade garlic bread recipe is the perfect addition to your table. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you can whip up homemade garlic bread in no time.
• Incredibly Flavorful – A perfect blend of butter, garlic, and herbs makes every bite irresistible.
• Customizable – Add your favorite herbs, cheeses, or even a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a unique twist.
• Better Than Store-Bought – No preservatives or artificial flavors—just fresh, real ingredients that taste amazing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for extra garlic flavor)
• ¼ teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese (optional)

How to Make Homemade Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano (if using). Stir until all the ingredients are well combined. This flavorful garlic butter will infuse the bread with rich, garlicky goodness.

Step 2: Slice the Bread

Take your loaf of French or Italian bread and slice it in half lengthwise. You can also cut it into individual slices if you prefer smaller, more bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Spread the Butter Mixture

Using a butter knife or a spatula, spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface so every bite is packed with flavor. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it generously on top at this stage.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the butter is fully melted and the edges start to turn golden brown.

Step 5: Broil for Extra Crispiness

For an extra crispy texture, switch the oven to the broil setting and let the bread toast for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Then, slice it into pieces and serve warm. Enjoy it on its own or with your favorite dipping sauce!

Helpful Tips

• Use Fresh Garlic – While garlic powder adds a nice touch, fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
• Choose the Right Bread – French bread or Italian bread works best because of their crisp crust and soft interior.
• Don’t Overbake – Keep an eye on the bread while baking to prevent it from becoming too dry or burnt.
• Make it Cheesy – If you love cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, or a blend of both before baking.
• Add a Little Heat – A dash of red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick if you like a bit of heat.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 17 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Side Dish, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Notes

• If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can substitute ½ teaspoon of garlic powder per clove of garlic.
• This recipe works well with whole wheat or sourdough bread for a different flavor profile.
• You can double the butter mixture and store leftovers in the fridge for future use.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 13g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?

Yes! While French or Italian bread is ideal, you can also use ciabatta, sourdough, or even a baguette for a crispier texture.

How Do I Make Garlic Bread Without an Oven?

You can cook garlic bread on a stovetop! Heat a skillet over medium heat, place the buttered bread face-down, and toast until golden brown.

Can I Make Garlic Bread Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread, then wrap it in foil and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.

How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Bread?

Wrap leftovers in foil and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I Freeze Garlic Bread?

Absolutely! Wrap the prepared (but unbaked) garlic bread in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply place it in the oven straight from the freezer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes.

Related Recipes

If you loved this homemade garlic bread, you might also enjoy:

• Baked Garlic Parmesan Potato Wedges
• French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread
• French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread
• Korean Cream Cheese Garlic Bread

Conclusion

Making homemade garlic bread is so easy, and once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought again! With a crispy crust, buttery garlic flavor, and the option to add cheese or herbs, this recipe is a guaranteed favorite. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or as a snack on its own, everyone will be coming back for seconds.’

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