The best homemade garlic bread recipe! With just a few simple ingredients like store-bought French bread, butter, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkling of fresh parsley, this easy recipe is perfect side dish when you need garlic bread fast! The crispy edges are the perfect texture and the toasty bread is packed with flavor from the delicious garlic butter mixture. From the bakery to your dinner table in about 15 minutes!
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that’s delicious, simple, and very affordable…and tastes way better than any store-bought garlic bread. The best part is that you can use any bread you already have on hand. Yes, including sandwich bread!
Obviously, the very best garlic bread is made with a French bread loaf. The toasted texture just holds up so well when dipped into spaghetti sauce, vegetable soup, or any other saucy situation that needs to be soaked up! This is truly a great recipe and one that you can add a little variety to whenever necessary.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe is a lifesaver when you need a side dish in a pinch. With only four basic ingredients, it’s incredibly simple and budget-friendly. The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese adds irresistible flavor to every bite. Plus, it pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes, making it a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
- Store-bought bread: The best bread for this recipe is a loaf of French bread. But any fresh bakery bread from your grocery store will work, too. Try pre-seasoned bread, like Italian bread with herbs, or any other freshly baked loaf of bread your family enjoys. Regular sandwich bread can also be used in a pinch!
- Butter: Provides richness and helps the garlic and cheese adhere to the bread. Make sure to bring the butter to room temperature for easier mixing. You can substitute margarine if desired.
- Garlic: Infuses the bread with aromatic flavor. Fresh garlic cloves are recommended for the best taste, but garlic powder can be used as a substitute.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor and forms a golden crust on top of the bread. Feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a different twist.
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Bread
Step 1: Lightly Toast the Bread
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the bread into thick slices, in whichever way you desire.
- Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and lightly toast, just until starting to crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Spread
Meanwhile, combine the minced garlic and softened butter in a small bowl. Add additional seasonings as desired. Stir until well-combined. For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil.
Remove the bread from the oven and spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture onto each slice, and sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
Step 3: Bake the Bread
Then, return to the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread reaches desired crispiness and parmesan cheese is bubbly.
If you prefer crispier garlic bread, extend the baking time or even broil for a few minutes. For soft garlic bread, lightly toast in the oven, the spread the butter and garlic mixture and serve, omitting the parmesan cheese.
Expert Cooking Tips
- Use day-old bread for better absorption of the garlic and butter mixture.
- Don’t skimp on the garlic! The more garlic, the better the flavor.
- Serve the garlic bread immediately for the best taste and texture.
Variations
- Add sliced tomatoes or fresh basil leaves for a twist on classic garlic bread.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Substitute different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a unique flavor profile.
What to Serve with Garlic Bread
This easy garlic bread recipe pairs perfectly with pasta dishes, casseroles, soups, and more! This could even be served as a tasty appetizer served with marinara sauce for dipping. Its versatile nature makes it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering or family dinner.
Try these main dishes out:
- Lasagna Soup
- Baked Ravioli
- French Onion Soup
- Beef Stew
- Baked Ziti
- Spaghetti Sauce
- Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil
- Low Country Boil
- Seafood Lasagna
- Crab Legs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-sliced bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Pre-sliced bread works well and saves time. Just adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure even toasting.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
Can I freeze leftover garlic bread?
Yes, you can freeze leftover garlic bread. Wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven until warmed through.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, garlic powder can be used as a substitute. Start with 1/2 teaspoon per slice and adjust to taste.
What’s the best way to reheat garlic bread?
To reheat garlic bread, place it on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Storing & Reheating
When storing leftover garlic bread, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place the bread on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in a toaster oven for a quick and crispy snack. Enjoy!
With this Easy Cheesy Homemade Garlic French Bread recipe, you can elevate any meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Try it tonight and watch it disappear in no time!
More Side Dish Recipes
- Southern Pineapple Casserole Recipe
- Old Fashioned Southern Squash Casserole
- Homemade Garlic Bread
- Herb Roasted Potatoes
- Southern-Style Mac and Cheese
- Hot Water Cornbread
Loved this recipe?
If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a star rating and a comment below! Your feedback not only helps others discover my blog but also gives me valuable insights from your experience.
Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for the latest recipes. Thank you for supporting Southern Cravings!
Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread or store-bought bread
- ½ cup butter softened
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Italian seasoning chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the bread into thick slices, in whichever way you desire.
- Place the bread slices on a baking sheet and lightly toast, just until starting to crisp, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Meanwhile, combine the minced garlic and softened butter in a small bowl. Add additional seasonings as desired. Stir until well-combined.
- Remove the bread and spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture onto each slice. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Return to the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread reaches desired toastedness and parmesan cheese is bubbly.
