Garlic Bread

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Golden, buttery, and bursting with bold garlic flavor, garlic bread is the ultimate comfort side dish. Whether you’re pairing it with a hearty pasta, serving it alongside soup, or just enjoying it as a snack, this crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside bread never disappoints.

The beauty of homemade garlic bread lies in its simplicity and flexibility. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a flavor-packed loaf that rivals any restaurant version. It’s a must-have for dinner parties, family nights, or lazy weekends.

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What Kind of Bread Works Best for Garlic Bread?

A classic French baguette or Italian loaf is ideal. These breads have a nice balance of chewiness and crustiness, allowing the garlic butter to seep in without becoming soggy. Day-old bread actually works better, giving you that perfect crunch once baked.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Bread

• 1 loaf French or Italian bread
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or mozzarella for a cheesy twist

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How To Make the Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prep the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Stir until everything is well incorporated.

Step 2: Slice the Bread

Cut the loaf in half lengthwise. If preferred, you can also slice it into individual serving pieces before spreading the butter.

Step 3: Spread and Add Cheese (Optional)

Generously spread the garlic butter over each half of the bread. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the buttered surface.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes. For extra golden edges, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Slice and serve immediately while the butter is still melty and the edges crisp.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is best enjoyed hot out of the oven, right when the edges are crisp and the center is tender. Pair it with classic comfort meals like spaghetti, lasagna, or creamy soups. Leftovers? Wrap tightly in foil and refrigerate. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can substitute 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for fresh cloves, but the flavor will be milder.

What if I only have salted butter?

Go ahead and use it! Just skip the added salt in the recipe.

Can I freeze garlic bread?

Absolutely. After spreading the garlic butter, wrap the loaf tightly in foil and freeze. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.

How do I keep garlic bread from getting soggy?

Use crusty bread and bake until golden. Avoid overloading with butter, and broil at the end for crispiness.

Can I make it vegan?

Sure! Use plant-based butter and skip the cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives.

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Want More Bread and Side Dish Ideas?

If you’re loving this garlicky goodness, explore these other crave-worthy creations from Nina Dishes:

• Giant Zucchini Parmesan for a veggie-packed side with melty cheese.
• Funeral Potatoes if you’re craving creamy and crispy potato layers.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts to keep the garlic theme going strong.
• Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes for a bold and herby pairing.
• Baked Ziti with Ground Beef and Ricotta to complete your meal with a classic pasta favorite.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s handy when that garlic bread craving hits: Follow Nina Dishes on Pinterest

And tell me how your garlic bread turned out! Did you add herbs or go cheesy? Any dipping sauces you love pairing with it?

Drop your tips and twists in the comments. Let’s make garlic bread magic together!

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