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Garlic Bread Recipe: Golden, Buttery & Ready in 15 Minutes

This recipe for garlic bread will produce golden, crunchy edges and a soft, butterycentre in just 15 minutes; it uses simple ingredients and has easy steps as well as tasty variations
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 3
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 baguette or Italian loaf about 14 inches / 35 cm
Garlic butter:
  • ½ cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 5 garlic cloves grated or finely minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp fine salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ■ cup grated Parmesan optional
  • Zest of ½ lemon optional

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
    STEP 1.
    1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and heat a baking sheet.
    STEP 2.
    1. Cut the loaf lengthways or into slices.
    STEP 3.
    1. Mix butter, olive oil, garlic, parsley, seasoning, salt, pepper, Parmesan and lemon zest.
    STEP 4.
    1. Spread garlic butter evenly over the bread.
    STEP 5.
    1. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until golden and bubbling.
    STEP 6.
    1. Broil for 30 to 45 seconds for extra colour if desired.
    STEP 7.
    1. Rest for two minutes, add parsley and serve warm.
    Tips for the Best Garlic Bread
    1. Use finely grated fresh garlic for even flavour. Add olive oil with butter for better crisping. Choose
    2. bread with a firm crust and open crumb. Use a hot baking sheet for a crisp base. Avoid overbaking.
    3. Fresh garlic gives the best taste.
    What to Serve with Garlic Bread
    1. Serve with spaghetti bolognese, carbonara, aglio e olio, lasagna, soups, salads, roast chicken,
    2. steak, or grilled fish.
    Easy Variations
    1. Cheesy garlic bread: Add mozzarella and bake until melted.
    2. Spicy garlic bread: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
    3. Roasted garlic bread: Use mashed roasted garlic.
    4. Flatbread: Use garlic butter on naan or pita.
    5. Vegan: Use plant-based butter and nutritional yeast.
    6. Air fryer: Cook slices at 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes.
    Storage and Reheating
    1. Store cooled leftovers wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C)
    2. oven for 8 to 10 minutes. Freeze prepared unbaked garlic bread for up to three months.
    Frequently Asked Questions
      What kind of bread is best?
      1. A baguette or Italian loaf works best.
      Can I use garlic powder?
      1. Yes, about one teaspoon can replace five cloves.
      Why is garlic bread soggy?
      1. Use softened butter, firm bread and a hot oven.
      Why is garlic bread bitter?
      1. Garlic can burn quickly, so avoid over-broiling.
      Can I prepare it ahead?
      1. Yes, refrigerate or freeze before baking.
      Should I use salted or unsalted butter?
      1. Unsalted butter gives better salt control.

      Notes

      This garlic bread recipe proves that simple ingredients and a hot oven can create a crisp, golden loaf with a rich and aromatic centre. Serve it with pasta, soup or salad for a delicious homemade side dish.