Easy Garlic Bread is a quick homemade side dish made with French bread, butter, garlic powder, and parsley, baked until warm, soft, and lightly crisp. This simple oven-baked garlic bread recipe uses basic pantry ingredients and requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, and last-minute meals. The buttery garlic flavor pairs well with pasta, soup, salad, and grilled dishes, making it a versatile addition to any table. Ideal for anyone searching for easy garlic bread recipe, homemade garlic bread, oven baked bread recipes, or quick side dishes, this classic recipe delivers reliable results with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, softened (or margarine)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic powder and dried parsley until well combined.
- Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices, keeping the bottom of the loaf intact if possible.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each slice.
- Reassemble the loaf and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the butter is melted and the bread is warm and soft.
- Carefully unwrap and serve hot (foil will be very hot).
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic bread recipe is quick, simple, and made with basic ingredients. The butter melts into the bread, creating a soft, flavorful inside with a lightly crisp exterior. It pairs well with pasta, soups, and many main dishes, making it a versatile side for everyday meals.
Tips
- Use softened butter for easier mixing and spreading.
- Wrap the bread tightly in foil to keep it soft and moist.
- For a crispier texture, open the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- Fresh parsley can be used instead of dried for a stronger flavor.
Variations and Substitutions
- Add grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Use Italian seasoning instead of parsley.
- Swap French bread with Italian bread or baguette.
- Mix in minced fresh garlic for a stronger garlic taste.
- Use unsalted butter and adjust salt if preferred.
FAQs
Can I prepare garlic bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze before or after baking.
How do I reheat garlic bread?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5–10 minutes.
Can I make it without foil?
Yes, but foil helps keep the bread soft and evenly heated.
Serving
Serve warm alongside pasta dishes, soups, salads, or grilled meats. It also works well as an appetizer or snack with dipping sauces like marinara.
Suggestions
- Pair with spaghetti, lasagna, or creamy Alfredo dishes.
- Add mozzarella on top for cheesy garlic bread.
- Serve with tomato soup for a comforting meal.
- Brush with extra melted butter right after baking for added richness.
Easy Garlic Bread
60
servings10
minutes20
minutesIngredients
1 1 loaf French bread
½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, softened (or margarine)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon 1 dried parsley
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with garlic powder and dried parsley until well combined.
- Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices, keeping the bottom of the loaf intact if possible.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each slice.
- Reassemble the loaf and wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, until the butter is melted and the bread is warm and soft.
- Carefully unwrap and serve hot (foil will be very hot).
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