Italian · Snacks

Easy Garlic Bread Recipe

Name: Easy Garlic Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 Baguette or loaf of bread; 4 tablespoons Butter (softened); 3 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tablespoon Parsley (chopped); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper; 1/4 cup Mozzarella cheese (optional)

Garlic Bread is a simple and delicious Italian snack made with toasted bread slices coated in garlic butter and herbs. It is crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect as a side dish or appetizer.

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 12 min
Serves: 3
Difficulty: Easy

Method

Oven Warmup

Begin by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F) so it is ready for baking while you prepare the garlic butter mixture.

Herb Butter

In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until everything is well combined into a smooth spread.

Bread Slicing

Slice the bread evenly into pieces without cutting all the way through if using a loaf, or cut into individual slices depending on preference.

Butter Application

Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over each slice, ensuring the edges are well coated for maximum flavor.

Brushing melted garlic and herb butter onto thick slices of sourdough bread on a baking tray

Brushing melted garlic and herb butter onto thick slices of sourdough bread on a baking tray

Optional Cheese

If desired, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of the buttered bread for a richer, cheesy version.

Bake Mode

Place the prepared bread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in the preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes.

Crispy Finish

Continue baking until the edges turn golden brown and crispy while the center remains soft and flavorful.

Texture Rest

Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving to enhance the texture and taste.

A steaming hot loaf of garlic bread being pulled apart revealing the soft and buttered interior

A steaming hot loaf of garlic bread being pulled apart revealing the soft and buttered interior

Serve Warm

Serve warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish with pasta or soups.

Cook’s tips

Use room temperature butter for easier mixing and spreading; never use melted butter as it will soak into the bread and make it greasy instead of crispy.
Fresh garlic is a must! Pre-minced garlic in oil doesn't have the same aromatic punch as freshly crushed cloves.
If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the butter mixture before spreading.

Recipe notes

Completing your Italian dinner? Serve this alongside our Classic Beef Lasagna or for a unique fusion twist, pair it with our Authentic Chicken Teriyaki as a savory companion!

Frequently asked questions

Can I use any type of bread?

Yes, French baguettes, Italian loaves, or even thick slices of sourdough work beautifully for garlic bread.

How do I store leftovers?

Wrap leftovers in foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C for 5 minutes to restore the crunch.