Homemade Garlic Bread – Simple, Buttery, and Crispy
Warm, buttery, and loaded with garlicky goodness—homemade garlic bread is one of those simple pleasures that makes any meal better. It’s the kind of side that disappears fast, whether you’re serving pasta, soup, or a big salad. The best part?
You can make it exactly how you like it: extra crispy, super buttery, or with a hint of herbs. Once you try it fresh from your oven, the store-bought stuff won’t stand a chance.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe gets the balance right: a crisp edge with a soft, pillowy center, thanks to the right oven temperature and a generous, even spread of garlic butter. Fresh garlic brings bright, punchy flavor, while a touch of olive oil keeps the butter from burning.
Using the right bread—like a baguette or Italian loaf—gives you structure and chew. A quick blast under the broiler at the end adds that golden, toasty finish without drying the bread out.
Shopping List
- 1 large baguette or Italian loaf (day-old works great)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced or grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
- Prep the bread. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.
If you prefer individual pieces, slice it into thick 1–1.5 inch slices on a slight angle.
- Make the garlic butter. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). It should be spreadable and fragrant.
- Spread generously. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to evenly spread the garlic butter over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure it reaches the edges—those crispy bits are the best.
- Add cheese if you like. Sprinkle a light layer of grated Parmesan over the top for a savory kick.
This is optional but delicious.
- Bake. Place the bread, cut side up, on the baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the butter is melted and the edges are starting to crisp.
- Broil briefly. Switch to broil for 1–2 minutes to get a golden, toasty top. Keep a close eye on it—garlic can go from perfect to burnt fast.
- Rest and slice. Let the bread sit for 2–3 minutes to set slightly, then slice into pieces and serve warm.
How to Store
- Room temperature: Wrap leftovers in foil and keep on the counter for up to 1 day.
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes.
- Refrigerator: Not ideal, as it can dry the bread out. If you must, wrap tightly and reheat in the oven, not the microwave.
- Freezer: Assemble the buttered bread, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, then broil to finish.
Why This is Good for You
Garlic bread isn’t a health food, but it can have some upsides.
Fresh garlic contains allicin, which has been linked to heart health and immune support. Olive oil adds healthy fats that can help you feel satisfied. Pairing it with a veggie-heavy meal or a protein-rich main helps keep the plate balanced.
And making it at home means you control the salt, butter, and portion size.
What Not to Do
- Don’t burn the garlic. Burnt garlic tastes bitter. Keep an eye during the broil step and avoid toasting it in a pan first.
- Don’t skip the olive oil. It helps the butter spread evenly and prevents scorching.
- Don’t use overly soft bread. Very soft sandwich bread turns soggy. Go for a sturdy baguette or Italian loaf.
- Don’t overbake. If you dry the bread out, you’ll lose that soft center.
Bake just until the edges crisp.
- Don’t rely on garlic powder alone. Powder is fine as a backup, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor and aroma.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Top with a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan. Bake until melted and bubbly, then broil for a golden finish.
- Herb Blend: Add chopped basil, chives, or oregano to the butter. Dried Italian seasoning works in a pinch—about 1 teaspoon.
- Lemon-Garlic: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the butter for a bright, fresh twist.
- Roasted Garlic: Swap raw garlic for 1 head of roasted garlic.
Mash into the butter for a sweeter, mellow flavor.
- Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of Calabrian chili oil before serving.
- Vegan: Use a good vegan butter and extra-virgin olive oil. Nutritional yeast can add a cheesy note.
- Garlic Knots Style: Use pizza dough, bake or air-fry in knots, then toss in the garlic butter and parsley.
FAQ
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, but use it wisely. Start with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and taste the butter mixture, adding more if needed.
Fresh garlic gives a brighter, sharper flavor, while powder is milder and more even.
What bread is best for garlic bread?
A baguette or Italian loaf is ideal. You want a sturdy crust and a soft interior so it toasts well without going flat or soggy.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Spread the butter evenly and bake cut side up. Avoid wrapping in foil during baking unless you prefer a softer texture.
A brief broil at the end helps lock in crispness.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Spread the butter on the bread, wrap tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for longer. Bake just before serving so it stays crisp.
Is salted or unsalted butter better?
Unsalted gives you more control over seasoning.
If you use salted butter, reduce the added salt and taste the mixture before spreading.
How do I reheat garlic bread?
Use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, which makes the bread chewy and soggy.
Can I add fresh mozzarella?
You can, but slice it thin and blot with a paper towel to reduce moisture. Bake a bit longer and broil to finish so it’s melty and lightly browned.
What if I don’t have parsley?
Skip it or use chives, basil, or a pinch of dried Italian seasoning.
The garlic and butter carry the flavor, so you’ll still get a great result.
In Conclusion
Homemade garlic bread is simple, fast, and wildly satisfying. With a few pantry staples and the right technique, you get a golden, crunchy top and a soft, buttery center every time. Make it classic, cheesy, or herby—whatever fits your meal.
Once you’ve nailed your favorite version, it’ll become a go-to side you can pull off any night of the week.
Homemade Garlic Bread - Simple, Buttery, and Crispy
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.
- Prep the bread. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.If you prefer individual pieces, slice it into thick 1–1.5 inch slices on a slight angle.
- Make the garlic butter. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). It should be spreadable and fragrant.
- Spread generously. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to evenly spread the garlic butter over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure it reaches the edges—those crispy bits are the best.
- Add cheese if you like. Sprinkle a light layer of grated Parmesan over the top for a savory kick.This is optional but delicious.
- Bake. Place the bread, cut side up, on the baking sheet. Bake for 10–12 minutes, until the butter is melted and the edges are starting to crisp.
- Broil briefly. Switch to broil for 1–2 minutes to get a golden, toasty top. Keep a close eye on it—garlic can go from perfect to burnt fast.
- Rest and slice. Let the bread sit for 2–3 minutes to set slightly, then slice into pieces and serve warm.
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Sumayya is a home cook and recipe creator who shares simple, flavorful recipes made for everyday cooking. She believes good food should be easy, comforting, and enjoyed by everyone.
