Introduction
Garlic bread is a delicious and classic side dish that pairs beautifully with pasta, salads, or soups. This easy-to-follow recipe elevates traditional garlic bread with a rich buttery flavor and a hint of spice. With fresh garlic, aromatic herbs, and the distinctive sharpness of Parmesan cheese, this garlic bread will surely impress your family and guests.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 loaf of Italian or French bread (16 ounces)
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
10 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
25 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
This garlic bread recipe is not only simple but also offers a rich and satisfying flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven with the flavorful dipping butter for a delightful treat.
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 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 Mixture
Pour the butter mixture through a mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of minced parsley and mix well.
Step 5: Brush the Bread
Brush the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
Step 6: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the buttered bread.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Bake for 10 minutes, then turn the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
Step 8: Prepare Dipping Butter
While the bread is baking, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and mix with the remaining parsley and sea salt.
Step 9: Serve
Remove the bread from the oven, slice, and serve warm with the extra dipping butter.
Notes
Storage
Leftover garlic bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestion
This garlic bread pairs well with pasta dishes, soups, or as an appetizer for any meal.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level.
Cook Techniques
Butter Infusion
Combine butter with minced garlic and crushed red pepper over low heat to create a flavorful infusion without browning the garlic, preserving its delicate taste.
Straining
Use a mesh strainer to separate the infused butter from the solids, ensuring a smooth and rich garlic butter for even spreading on the bread.
Broiling
After baking, switch to broil for a short time to achieve perfectly golden and crispy edges on the bread, enhancing texture and flavor.
Dipping Butter Preparation
Melt additional butter and mix with parsley and sea salt to create a tasty dipping sauce that complements the garlic bread.
FAQ
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but it may alter the overall saltiness of the dish. Adjust the sea salt accordingly.
What type of bread is best for this recipe?
Italian or French bread works best due to their texture and ability to hold up well with the butter.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter mixture.
Can I prepare this in advance?
The garlic butter can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Assemble and bake the bread when ready to serve.
What can I serve with this garlic bread?
It pairs well with pasta dishes, soups, or salads, making it a versatile side for various meals.
Conclusion
The garlic Parmesan bread is a delightful combination of buttery goodness, garlic flavor, and a hint of spice, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal or an irresistible snack on its own. The crispy edges combined with the warm, soft center create a satisfying texture that is sure to please anyone who tries it.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Transform your loaf into cheesy garlic breadsticks by adding mozzarella cheese and Italian herbs to the garlic butter mixture before baking for a fun twist.
Garlic Bread Pizza
Spread marinara sauce over the bread before brushing with garlic butter, then top with your favorite pizza toppings and cheese for a delicious garlic bread pizza.
Herbed Garlic Bread
Enhance the flavor by incorporating a mix of dried Italian herbs like oregano and basil into the garlic butter mixture for a herby garlic bread experience.
Spicy Avocado Toast
Use slices of the baked garlic bread as a base for avocado toast, topping it with smashed avocado, lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a zesty twist.
Bruschetta with Garlic Bread Base
Use the baked garlic bread as a base for fresh tomato bruschetta, adding diced tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze for a refreshing appetizer.
Garlic Bread with Pesto Spread
Spread homemade or store-bought pesto on the garlic bread before baking for a flavor-packed experience that brings a new dimension to your garlic bread.
