Can I make this garlic bread in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the bread with the garlic butter mixture, wrap tightly in foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, broil or bake as directed—just add an extra minute or two of cook time if baking from cold.

What’s the best bread to use for this recipe?

A sturdy French baguette or an Italian loaf is ideal for a crispy crust and tender crumb, but ciabatta, sourdough, or even split sandwich rolls shine in this recipe. The key is using bread with enough structure to hold the generous butter topping.

Can I use garlic powder if I don’t have fresh garlic?

In a pinch, yes. Use about a teaspoon of garlic powder per loaf. It’s not as vibrant as fresh, but it will still give your bread that beloved savory kick.

How do I keep garlic bread from getting soggy?

Spread the butter mixture right to the edges for even browning and broil just long enough for crispness. Serve immediately—garlic bread is best enjoyed hot and fresh!

The Ultimate Garlic Bread Recipe

Description

This ultimate garlic bread recipe delivers a delicious and aromatic side, featuring crisp-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside bread slathered with a flavorful blend of butter, olive oil, garlic, parmesan, and herbs. Perfect alongside pasta, soups, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, it’s quick to prepare and easily customizable with your favorite bread.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Bread

1 loaf French bread

Butter Mixture

1/2 cup salted butter, softened
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
4 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat the Broiler: Position your oven rack 6–8 inches below the broiler element and preheat the broiler. This ensures the bread broils evenly and quickly creates a golden, crispy crust.
Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise. Arrange both halves with the cut side facing up on a baking sheet to maximize surface area for the garlic butter mixture.
Mix the Garlic Butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, dried basil, oregano, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly with a fork or spoon until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.
Spread the Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves, ensuring generous and even coverage for optimal flavor.
Broil the Bread: Place the baking sheet under the broiler. Broil for 2–5 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the surface is bubbly. Watch closely, as broiling times can vary based on the oven and rack position, and the bread can brown quickly.
Slice and Serve: Carefully remove the bread from the oven. Slice into pieces and serve immediately while warm and fragrant.

Notes

Bread Options: Substitute with Italian bread, ciabatta, sourdough, sub rolls, or even sandwich bread.
Broiling Tips: Ovens vary in broiler intensity; rotate the baking sheet if needed for even browning and monitor closely to prevent burning.
Baking Option: No broiler? Bake at 450°F for 8–10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Soft Garlic Bread: For a softer texture, wrap the bread in foil and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 piece
Calories: 239 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 518 mg
Fat: 14 g
Saturated Fat: 7 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0.4 g
Carbohydrates: 22 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 29 mg