Easy Garlic Bread

There’s nothing quite like transforming a simple store-bought loaf into the best Easy Garlic Bread you’ve ever had! With just butter, garlic, and herbs, you’ll create crispy, golden garlic bread that’s perfectly soft inside.

This simple recipe takes just 15 minutes and is perfect for pasta nights, family dinners, or whenever you need the ultimate comfort food side dish!

There’s nothing quite like taking a simple loaf of bread from the grocery store and transforming it into the best garlic bread you’ve ever had. With just a few basic ingredients and a quick assembly, you can turn that ordinary loaf from the bakery section into something truly extraordinary.

By combining softened butter, garlic powder, and herbs you’ll create a garlic butter spread that soaks into the soft bread, giving it an incredible flavor and those perfectly crispy edges we all crave. In just 10-15 minutes, you’ll have a homemade garlic bread that rivals any restaurant version, and it all starts with that humble loaf of Italian bread.

Butter:  Using softened butter ensures that the spread mixes easily and gives the bread a rich, savory flavor. I don’t recommend melting the butter, just let it sit out on the counter for 30 minutes.

Cheeses: A combination of grated parmesan and shredded mozzarella creates a perfect blend of flavor and gooeyness.

Bread: Choose a fresh loaf of Italian bread for the best texture and flavor.

Herbs: You can use fresh herbs instead.

*If you want to make French Bread Garlic Bread, sub out the Italian bread for a loaf of French bread.

PRO TIP:

For an extra crispy finish, switch your oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Pre-heat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside. Slice the bread loaf in half, lengthwise; set aside.

Step 2: In a bowl combine the softened butter, garlic powder, parsley, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Mix well.

Step 3: Spread mixture evenly on each slice of the Italian Bread. Bake in a pre-heated oven for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

 Storage and Reheating:

Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.  

Reheating: To reheat, place the garlic bread on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.  

Freezing: You can freeze the prepared bread before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Additions & Substitutions:

ADDITIONS:

• Herbs: Add a sprinkle of fresh or dried basil, oregano, or thyme to the butter mixture for added flavor.
• Spices: For a little kick, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or black pepper.
• Extra Cheese: Add some extra shredded cheese on top before baking for an even cheesier result.

SUBSTITUTIONS:

• Butter: If you prefer, use unsalted butter and add a pinch of salt to the mixture.
• Cheese: Try using a blend of Italian cheeses, or substitute with cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Bread: Use any bread of your choice. For softer bread, use regular bread with thick slices. To make crispy garlic bread with regular sliced sandwich bread slices, toast the bread before applying the garlic butter mixture. 

FAQs for the Best Garlic Bread recipe:

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use different bread varieties such as a loaf of French bread, sandwich bread or even hamburger buns.

Can I adjust the amount of garlic?

Yes! Use more for stronger flavor or less for milder taste. I use 3 garlic cloves with my garlic press for the perfect fresh garlic bread!

Can I make Air Fryer Garlic Bread?

Yes! Place the garlic bread slices in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently until golden and crispy. Air fryer garlic bread cooks faster than the oven, so watch carefully to prevent burning.

How to Freeze and Reheat Garlic Bread:

To Freeze:

1. Prepare garlic bread following the recipe but don’t bake
2. Wrap individually in plastic wrap
3. Store in freezer bag with air removed
4. Label with date – keeps up to 3 months

To Reheat:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F
2. Unwrap frozen bread (no thawing needed)
3. Bake 10-12 minutes until golden and bubbly
4. Serve immediately

Tips:

• Vacuum seal for best results
• For softer texture, wrap in foil when reheating
• Watch closely to prevent burning

What to Serve with Easy Garlic Bread:

This easy garlic bread is the perfect side for pasta nights and pairs beautifully with our Marry Me Chicken Pasta, Mexican Spaghetti, Lemon Ricotta Pasta, or Easy Rotel Pasta.

I’m excited for you to try this Cheesy Garlic Bread! After you make it, please leave a rating to let me know your thoughts on it – I’m eager to hear if you loved it as much as we do!