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Homemade Garlic Bread

This garlic bread is made by spreading a fragrant, buttery garlic mixture onto a crusty loaf and baking until golden and crispy. The final texture is a perfect balance of crunchy edges and oozy, flavorful garlic butter inside, with a tempting aroma filling the kitchen. Simple ingredients and straightforward techniques create a comforting, irresistible side dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Western
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 loaf French bread or rustic loaf crusty and sturdy
  • 4-5 cloves garlic fresh, crushed until fragrant
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened to room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, optional for brightness
  • 1 pinch salt to taste

Equipment

  • Serrated bread knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet with parchment
  • Spatula or butter knife

Method
 

  1. Start by slicing the loaf lengthwise in half with a serrated bread knife, revealing the soft interior and crispy crust.
  2. In a mixing bowl, mash the garlic cloves until fragrant and slightly paste-like.
  3. Add the softened butter to the garlic and stir until well combined, creating a fragrant, creamy garlic butter.
  4. Stir in chopped parsley and a pinch of salt, then mix again to evenly distribute the herbs and seasoning.
  5. Use a spatula or butter knife to generously spread the garlic butter mixture all over the cut sides of the bread, pressing into the crevices for maximum flavor.
  6. Place the bread halves cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in a preheated oven at 200°C (392°F) for 15-20 minutes, until the edges are golden and crispy, and the butter is bubbling.
  7. Optional: For an extra crispy top, switch to broil mode for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
  8. Remove from the oven and let rest for 2 minutes, allowing the butter to settle and making it easier to slice without excess drips.
  9. Slice into individual pieces and serve warm, enjoying the crispy edges, fragrant garlic aroma, and tender, buttery interior.

Notes

For extra flavor, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before baking or add a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.