Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleaser that takes almost no effort yet delivers comfort with every bite, look no further than Herbed Garlic Bread. Imagine slices of crusty bread slathered edge-to-edge with rich garlicky butter, laced with fresh herbs and just a touch of cheese, baked until everything mingles into a golden, aromatic masterpiece. Whether you’re serving pasta, soup, or just want a snack that wows, this Herbed Garlic Bread will always steal the spotlight at your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Herbed Garlic Bread lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient, from fresh bread to flavorful herbs, plays an essential role in creating layers of taste, aroma, and irresistible texture.
- French or Italian bread: Pick a loaf with a crisp crust and soft, airy interior—it’s the vessel for all your tasty toppings.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Allows you to control the seasoning and creates a rich, melting base for the garlic and herbs.
- Garlic (minced): Use fresh cloves for maximum garlicky punch; the soul of classic garlic bread.
- Fresh parsley (chopped): Adds brightness, color, and that herby pop that lifts the butter and garlic.
- Fresh basil (chopped) or dried basil: Fresh basil delivers a sweet-savory aroma, but dried works beautifully if that’s all you have.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness of the butter.
- Black pepper: A subtle background warmth that deepens the flavor profile.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For a savory, nutty finish that turns your bread gloriously golden (and hard to resist).
How to Make Herbed Garlic Bread
Step 1: Prep the Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Take your French or Italian loaf and slice it in half lengthwise to expose as much surface area as possible for the herby, garlicky topping. Place both halves cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet—this makes cleanup a breeze and helps the bread toast evenly.
Step 2: Make the Herbed Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil (fresh or dried), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything really well with a fork or spatula until the herbs and garlic are evenly distributed. This is when you start to smell just how good your Herbed Garlic Bread is going to be!
Step 3: Spread and Top
Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the herbed garlic butter mixture generously over both bread halves, covering edge to edge so every bite is flavorful. If you’re cheese-inclined, sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly on top—it adds a deliciously golden, savory crust when baked.
Step 4: Bake
Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake the bread for 10–12 minutes. Watch for those melting pools of butter and the edges turning golden and crisp. For an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes. Keep a close eye so the bread doesn’t burn!
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Once the bread is gorgeously golden and smells irresistible, take it out and let it cool for a minute. Slice your Herbed Garlic Bread into generous pieces and serve while it’s still warm, so everyone can savor the blissful mix of buttery crunch and herbaceous aroma.
How to Serve Herbed Garlic Bread
Garnishes
For a stunning finish, scatter a handful of extra chopped parsley or basil over the hot bread just before serving. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a twist of fresh ground black pepper adds a chef’s touch and heightens those fresh aromas. If you like a hint of heat, a few red pepper flakes work wonders too.
Side Dishes
Herbed Garlic Bread is a true team player. Serve it alongside classic pasta dishes, like spaghetti or lasagna, to mop up all that delicious sauce. It shines next to hearty soups, stews, and salads, turning a simple meal into a small feast. Honestly, it goes with almost anything or just stands alone as a satisfying snack!
Creative Ways to Present
Go beyond basic slices: try cutting the bread into strips for dipping into marinara sauce or slice it into cubes and serve on a bread board with assorted cheeses and olives. For parties, stack or fan out the pieces on a platter and sprinkle with colorful microgreens for a gourmet look that’ll impress any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Herbed Garlic Bread (lucky you!), let it cool completely, then wrap it snugly in foil or place in an airtight container. It will keep at room temperature for about a day, or in the fridge for up to three days without losing too much flavor or texture.
Freezing
Herbed Garlic Bread freezes surprisingly well! Wrap fully cooled slices or whole loaves tightly in foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to a month. Thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven wrapped in foil for 8–10 minutes, which keeps the bread moist and the flavors intact. To crisp it up, open the foil in the last couple of minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use pre-sliced bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-sliced bread works in a pinch. Just lay out the slices and slather them individually with the herbed garlic butter before baking—watch closely, as they may toast faster than a whole loaf.
Can I make Herbed Garlic Bread vegan?
Yes! Swap the unsalted butter for your favorite vegan butter and omit the Parmesan cheese (or use a dairy-free alternative). The result will be just as flavorful and satisfying.
What’s the best way to get extra crispy Herbed Garlic Bread?
Pop it under the broiler for the last 1–2 minutes of baking, but keep an eye out—those gorgeous edges go from perfect to burnt fast. The broiler gives you a lovely, golden, extra crunchy top.
Can I prepare the herbed garlic butter in advance?
Definitely! Mix your butter, herbs, and garlic up to 3 days ahead and store in the fridge. When ready to use, bring it to room temperature for easy spreading.
What other herbs can I add?
Feel free to get creative! Chives, oregano, thyme, or even a touch of rosemary can add unique flavors. Mix and match to suit your mood or whatever’s growing in your garden.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about pulling a tray of warm, fragrant Herbed Garlic Bread from the oven—it just begs everyone to gather around the table. Give this recipe a try, and you might find it becomes your own signature side, the one friends and family request over and over. Happy baking!
Print
Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Enjoy this flavorful Herbed Garlic Bread with a crispy exterior and a soft, buttery interior. The perfect side to complement any meal!
Ingredients
Bread:
- 1 loaf French or Italian bread
Herb Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil (chopped) or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the bread: Slice the bread in half lengthwise and place it cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- Make the herb butter: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Spread the butter: Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over both halves of the bread. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Bake: Bake for 10–12 minutes until the edges are golden and the butter is melted. Broil for an extra 1–2 minutes for a crispier top.
- Serve: Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- You can make the garlic herb butter ahead and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use vegan butter to make it dairy-free.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 270 mg
- Fat: 11 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 16 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
