Crispy Garlic Bread

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Crispy garlic bread is one of those timeless side dishes that pairs well with almost everything. Whether you’re enjoying it alongside a big bowl of spaghetti or as an appetizer before the main course, its golden crunch and buttery garlic flavor make it irresistible. You get that satisfying crisp on the outside while the inside stays soft and warm—the ultimate texture combo.

The beauty of this garlic bread lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a crave-worthy bite that smells like comfort and tastes even better. Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or even a lazy weekend indulgence, this recipe elevates store-bought bread into something extraordinary.

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What Kind of Bread Should I Use for Crispy Garlic Bread?

For the best texture, choose a crusty bread like a French baguette or Italian loaf. You want something that can hold the garlic butter without getting soggy. Avoid soft sandwich bread—it doesn’t have the structure or crusty edge needed for that classic crisp.

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Ingredients for the Crispy Garlic Bread

• 1 large French baguette or Italian loaf
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

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How To Make the Crispy Garlic Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Step 3: Slice the Bread

Cut your baguette or loaf in half lengthwise, then place the halves cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Spread the Butter Mixture

Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over each half. Make sure to cover the entire surface. If you’re using Parmesan, sprinkle it evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the butter is bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes—just watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then slice into individual pieces and serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store Crispy Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is best served fresh out of the oven when the edges are crispy, and the butter is still warm. It’s a natural pairing with pasta dishes, soups, or a fresh Caesar salad. You can also serve it as an appetizer with a marinara dipping sauce.

To store leftovers, wrap the bread tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore the crisp texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make garlic bread even crispier?

Try broiling it for the last 1–2 minutes of baking. Keep an eye on it, as it can burn quickly.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for the fresh garlic, though the flavor won’t be quite as bold.

What kind of butter should I use?

Unsalted butter is ideal because you can control the salt level. If you use salted butter, reduce or skip the added salt.

Can I freeze garlic bread?

Absolutely. Assemble the bread with the garlic butter, wrap in foil, and freeze. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.

What herbs work well besides parsley?

Chives, basil, or thyme can be great substitutes or additions for a flavor twist.

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Want More Bread & Side Ideas?

If you love this crispy garlic bread, you might want to try these other delicious side dish recipes:

• Nutella French Toast Casserole for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes for a crispy, savory side.
• Buffalo Roasted Cauliflower if you’re craving something spicy and healthy.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts to make a full garlicky meal.
• Oven Roasted Root Vegetables for cozy and hearty dinners.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this crispy garlic bread to your Pinterest side dish board so you always have the recipe on hand.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go heavy on the garlic or add a cheesy twist? Did you use a special type of bread?

I love seeing how others make these recipes their own. Share your tips or questions below—let’s make every bite better together.

More of my daily recipes can be found on my Pinterest: Nina Dishes.

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