Introduction
If you’re looking for a deliciously buttery and aromatic side dish, this garlic bread recipe is a must-try. A combination of crusty Italian or French bread with a blend of garlic, butter, and a hint of spice creates a flavorful treat that’s perfect for any meal. Whether served alongside pasta, grilled meats, or simply enjoyed on its own, this garlic bread is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 (16-ounce) loaf of Italian or French bread
4 cloves garlic, minced
16 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (12 tablespoons for the bread and 4 tablespoons for extra dipping butter)
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon minced fresh parsley, divided
1 teaspoon coarse or flaked sea salt
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: Serves 8 as a side dish
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with foil.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Slice the loaf in half lengthwise and place each half cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine 12 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a low boil and boil for 1 minute, ensuring the garlic does not brown. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Strain the Butter Mixture
Pour the butter mixture through a mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of minced fresh parsley and mix well.
Step 5: Spread the Garlic Butter
Spread or brush all except 4 tablespoons of the butter mixture over the bread halves and sprinkle with sea salt.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Bake the bread at 350°F on the middle rack of the oven for 10 minutes.
Step 7: Broil the Bread
Remove the bread from the oven and set the temperature to broil. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it onto the bread.
Step 8: Toast to Perfection
Return the bread to the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes, or until the bread is toasty and golden and the cheese bubbles slightly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Step 9: Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining ½ tablespoon of parsley. Allow the bread to cool for 1 minute before slicing.
Step 10: Dipping Sauce
Use the reserved 4 tablespoons of butter mixture as a dipping sauce, if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Note 1: Garlic Handling
When cooking the garlic, monitor it closely to avoid browning, which can create a bitter taste.
Note 2: Cheese Option
The Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a delicious depth of flavor; adjust according to preference.
Note 3: Serving Suggestions
This garlic bread pairs excellently with pasta dishes, soups, or salads. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
Cook techniques
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking of the bread.
Slicing the Bread
Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise to create two open halves for topping.
Infusing Butter
Gently heat butter with minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes to infuse the flavors without browning the garlic.
Straining
Use a mesh strainer to separate the infused butter from the garlic and spices for a smoother spread.
Spreading Butter
Use a brush or a spatula to evenly spread the infused butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread.
Baking
Bake in the oven for 10 minutes to warm and slightly toast the bread.
Broiling
Switch to the broil setting for 1-2 minutes to create a golden, toasty top, monitoring closely to avoid burning.
Garnishing
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top after broiling for added color and flavor.
Dipping Sauce
Reserve some infused butter to use as a dipping sauce for serving alongside the bread.
FAQ
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Italian or French bread is ideal due to its texture and ability to hold up to the toppings.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
Yes, but be mindful of the added salt; you may want to reduce or omit the added sea salt.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Keep the heat on low and ensure to remove the garlic butter mixture from heat as soon as it bubbles.
Can I add other herbs or spices to the butter?
Yes, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano, or spices like black pepper or paprika.
Is it necessary to strain the butter?
Straining isn’t necessary, but it gives a smoother texture and eliminates any burnt garlic bits.
How can I know when the bread is done broiling?
Watch for a golden brown color and bubbling cheese, which indicates it’s ready.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
While best served fresh, you can prepare the butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
What can I serve with this garlic bread?
It pairs well with pasta dishes, salads, or as an appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping.
Conclusion
This garlic bread recipe is a delightful accompaniment to any meal, offering a perfect balance of buttery goodness, aromatic garlic, and a hint of spice. The addition of Parmesan cheese elevates its flavor, making it an irresistible treat. Enjoy this dish fresh from the oven, either as an appetizer or a side dish, and don’t forget to use the extra dipping butter for an extra indulgent experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Herb Breadsticks
Transform this recipe into soft, chewy breadsticks by using bread dough instead of a loaf. Brush with the garlic butter mixture and sprinkle with Italian herbs for added flavor.
Cheesy Garlic Stuffed Bread
Hollow out the insides of the bread before adding the garlic butter mixture and shredded mozzarella or a blend of cheeses. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and the bread is golden.
Spicy Italian Flatbread
Use flatbread instead of a loaf to create a crispy base. Top with the garlic butter and a mix of Italian seasoning, then bake until crispy.
Mediterranean Garlic Bread
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and olives to the garlic butter mixture. Spread on the bread for a Mediterranean twist, perfect for serving with hummus or tzatziki.
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables
Use the same garlic butter mixture to roast vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. The flavors complement each other beautifully, resulting in a savory side dish.
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Sauté shrimp in the garlic butter mixture for a quick and delicious main course. Serve alongside the garlic bread for a complete meal.
