Introduction
Indulge in the delightful flavors of homemade garlic bread with this easy-to-follow recipe. Combining the richness of butter, the warmth of garlic, and the sharpness of Parmesan cheese, this dish makes for a perfect appetizer or side for any meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner, this garlic bread is sure to impress.
Ingredients
1 stick (1/2 cup) salted butter, cut into chunks
1 large clove garlic
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
Half a loaf of French bread or a full loaf of Italian bread
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time
10 minutes
Total Time
20 minutes
Yield
Serves 4-6
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Soften the butter in the microwave in short increments.
3. Grate the garlic directly into the softened butter.
4. Add the garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and minced parsley to the butter mixture; stir to combine.
5. Cut the bread in half and spread a thick layer of the butter mixture onto each half.
6. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, buttered side up, and bake for 9-10 minutes in the middle of the oven. For more browning, add an extra 1-2 minutes.
7. Remove from the oven, cut into slices, and serve.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures that the bread will bake evenly and become golden brown.
Step 2: Soften the Butter
Cut the stick of salted butter into chunks and place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave the butter in short increments of about 10-15 seconds until it is just softened but not melted completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic
Take the large clove of garlic and grate it directly into the softened butter using a microplane or a fine grater. This will distribute the flavor throughout the butter mixture.
Step 4: Mix in Additional Ingredients
Add 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley to the garlic butter mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 5: Prepare the Bread
Take half a loaf of French bread or a full loaf of Italian bread and cut it in half lengthwise. Make sure to slice it evenly so that both halves will have a good surface area for spreading the butter mixture.
Step 6: Spread the Butter Mixture
Using a spatula or a knife, spread a thick layer of the garlic butter mixture generously onto the cut sides of both halves of the bread.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the prepared bread halves on a baking sheet, making sure they are buttered side up. Bake in the middle of the oven for approximately 9-10 minutes. If you prefer a browner finish, add an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
Step 8: Serve the Bread
Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the oven. Allow it to cool for a moment, then cut into slices. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Butter Softening Tips
If you do not have a microwave, you can leave the butter out at room temperature for about 30 minutes to soften it naturally.
Garlic Variations
For a stronger garlic flavor, you can add more grated garlic or increase the amount of garlic powder to your taste.
Fresh Parsley Alternative
If fresh parsley is not available, you can substitute it with dried parsley, though the flavor may be less vibrant. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried parsley instead.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftover garlic bread, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze it for longer storage. Reheat in the oven to restore the crispness.
Cook techniques
Soften Butter
To soften butter quickly, cut it into smaller chunks and microwave it in short increments (about 10-15 seconds). This prevents the butter from melting completely while ensuring it’s easy to mix.
Grating Garlic
Grate garlic directly into the softened butter using a microplane or a fine grater. This method allows the garlic to integrate better into the butter, enhancing the overall flavor.
Mixing Ingredients
When combining the garlic, garlic powder, Parmesan cheese, and minced parsley with the butter, use a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure an even distribution of ingredients. This ensures every bite has a consistent flavor.
Spreading on Bread
For spreading the garlic butter mixture on bread, use a butter knife or spatula. Apply a thick, even layer to maximize flavor and richness in every slice.
Baking for Crispiness
Place the bread on a baking sheet with the buttered side facing up. Baking at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 9-10 minutes achieves a crispy texture. For an even browner finish, add an extra 1-2 minutes depending on desired crispness.
Cutting and Serving
After baking, let the bread cool slightly before cutting into slices. This prevents the topping from spilling off and ensures easier serving.
FAQ
Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just add a pinch of salt to the butter mixture if you prefer a salty flavor.
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley?
Yes, you can substitute dried parsley for fresh parsley. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What type of bread works best?
For this recipe, French or Italian bread is ideal due to their sturdy texture and ability to hold the garlic butter well.
Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Can I add other herbs or spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs such as oregano, basil, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for added heat.
Conclusion
This garlic Parmesan bread recipe is a simple yet delicious way to elevate your meal. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, it’s easy to prepare and is sure to impress your family and friends. The combination of butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley creates a flavorful spread that infuses the bread with irresistible savory aromas.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Garlic Herb Butter Shrimp
Sauté shrimp in a similar garlic herb butter for a quick and flavorful dish.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Transform your garlic butter spread into a cheesy delight by adding mozzarella cheese and herbs to breadsticks before baking.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Incorporate garlic, butter, and Parmesan into creamy mashed potatoes for a rich side dish.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
Marinate chicken pieces in garlic butter and bake for a quick and flavorful protein option.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Use the garlic butter mixture as a sauce base for spaghetti, adding sautéed garlic and red pepper flakes for a classic Italian dish.
Bruschetta with Garlic Butter
Top toasted bread with the garlic butter mixture, fresh tomatoes, and basil for a delicious appetizer.
