Simple Garlic Bread Recipe

Garlic bread is a simple yet delicious treat that can be enjoyed as an appetizer or alongside various main courses. Whether you're looking to impress your guests at a dinner party or just want a quick, tasty snack, this garlic bread recipe will satisfy your cravings in no time.

Ingredients

1 loaf of French bread (about 12 slices)
3 tablespoons of butter, softened
4 cloves of garlic, minced
Salt to taste
(Optional) Parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the French bread diagonally into thick slices, approximately ½ inch.
In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic until well combined. Season with salt according to taste.
Spread the garlic butter evenly over each slice of bread.
Place the bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid burning.
Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: About 45 minutes (including preparation time)

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 12 slices of garlic bread.

Nutritional Information per Serving

Calories: Approximately 160 calories per serving. Nutritional values can vary depending on the amount of butter used and the size of each slice of bread.

Fat: Saturated fat, Monounsaturated fat, Polyunsaturated fat
Carbohydrates: Total carbohydrates, Fiber, Sugars
Protein: Amount per serving

Tips for Perfect Garlic Bread

To ensure your garlic bread comes out perfectly golden and crispy:

Make sure the butter is softened before mixing with garlic. If it's too cold, it may not spread properly.
Don't overcrowd the baking sheet; give each slice some space so they can brown evenly.
If you prefer a spicier version, add some red pepper flakes to the mix. Just be careful not to overdo it!

Variations: Add-ins and Substitutions

Here are a few variations on this classic garlic bread recipe:

Herb Garlic Bread: After mixing your garlic butter, add finely chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano for extra flavor.
Mozzarella Garlic Bread:** Slice the top off your loaf of French bread, remove some of the inside (optional), and layer with sliced mozzarella cheese before spreading your garlic butter. Return to the oven until everything is warm and gooey on the inside!
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Instead of just using mozzarella, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan or another hard Italian cheese over the slices after baking for added richness.

Pairing Suggestions

This garlic bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some ideas:

Served alongside a salad and grilled chicken for a light meal.
Paired with pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or rigatoni carbonara for extra flavor.
Enjoyed as part of a charcuterie board, especially during holiday gatherings.

Conclusion: A Quick and Easy Favorite

Cooking garlic bread is an enjoyable activity that can be enjoyed by people at all levels of culinary expertise. Its simplicity allows you to experiment with different flavor profiles or create variations tailored to your taste preferences. With minimal effort, you can treat yourself or impress your friends and family. So why not try making this delightful dish today?