homemade garlic bread
Crisp on the outside, soft in the center, and loaded with garlic and herbs, this homemade garlic bread transforms any meal with just a few ingredients and less than 20 minutes. Learn how to layer flavor, pick the right loaf, and bake it perfectly every time.
Equipment
- baking sheet
- chef's knife
- mixing bowl
- spoon or spatula
- oven
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian or French loaf
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ⅛ tsp sea salt
- ¼ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Extra parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
- Slice loaf in half lengthwise and place on baking sheet, cut side up.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, garlic, parsley, and salt until smooth.
- Spread mixture evenly across both halves, covering all edges.
- Bake for 10–15 minutes until golden and crispy. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- If using cheese, sprinkle on top during the last 2 minutes of baking.
- Remove from oven, garnish with herbs, slice, and serve warm.
Notes
To make it vegan, use plant-based butter and skip the cheese or sub with nutritional yeast.
For spicier flavor, mix crushed red pepper or lemon zest into the garlic butter.
Wrap assembled bread and freeze, bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes. Avoid microwaving to preserve crispness.
Inspired by texture techniques used in our Banana Bread and baking control tips from Mini Lemon Cheesecakes.
For creative variations, see BBC Good Food’s Garlic Bread Upgrades.
Nutrition
Calories: 185kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 4gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 20mgSodium: 210mgPotassium: 60mgFiber: 1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 180IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.3mg