Brennan's Garlic Bread (Easy Restaurant Copycat)

Ingredients

• 1 loafFrench bread
• 1 clove, halvedgarlic
• 3 teaspoonsminced garlic
• 113 g (½ cup)salted butter, melted
• about 33 g (⅓ cup)grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml)parsley
• ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml)oregano

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat the oven

   Heat the oven to 177°C (350°F).

2. 2

   Rub with garlic

   Rub the outside of the loaf with the cut side of the halved garlic clove.

3. 3

   Add the toppings

   Slice the loaf in half lengthways. Spread melted butter over the cut sides, then sprinkle on the minced garlic, Parmesan, parsley and oregano.

4. 4

   Bake until golden

   Bake for about 8–10 minutes, until the bread is golden brown.

What is Brennan's garlic bread?

This is an American-style garlic bread inspired by the version associated with Brennan's Restaurant. It uses a whole loaf split lengthways, with butter, garlic, Parmesan and herbs layered over the cut sides.

The simple method lets the bread toast while the toppings turn fragrant and lightly golden. Serve it warm as a side for pasta or a shared meal.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 264 calories, 7g protein, 28g carbs, 13g fat.

The bread provides most of the carbohydrates, while butter contributes much of the fat and Parmesan adds some protein and fat. Serve a piece alongside vegetables or salad for a more varied plate.

Choosing the bread

French bread: A loaf with a crust and a soft interior gives the finished bread contrast between crisp edges and a tender middle. The recipe does not specify a loaf size, so baking time may vary slightly.

Building the garlic flavour

Whole clove: Rubbing the outside of the loaf with the cut clove gives the crust a subtle garlic aroma.

Minced garlic: Scatter it over the buttered cut sides so the garlic flavour is spread across the topping.

Getting a golden top

Butter first: Spread the melted butter over the cut surfaces before adding the other toppings. This helps the garlic, cheese and herbs adhere.

Watch the oven: Bake at 177°C (350°F) for about 8–10 minutes, checking for a golden-brown finish rather than relying on the timer alone.

Serving it warm

For clean slices, let the loaf rest briefly after baking, then cut it crosswise into portions. It is especially convenient to serve alongside pasta, where the crisp bread can be used to scoop up sauce.

If serving it as part of a larger spread, pair it with a salad or vegetables to add freshness and variety to the plate.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use a serrated knife to split the loaf lengthways without crushing it.
• Spread the melted butter evenly so the cut surfaces are coated from edge to edge.
• Distribute the minced garlic and herbs evenly for flavour in each portion.
• Check the bread near the end of the 8–10-minute baking time, as loaf size can affect browning.
• Slice the loaf into portions after baking for easier serving.

Variations

• Extra herbs: Add a little more parsley for a greener, herb-forward topping.
• Cheesier top: Sprinkle on additional Parmesan before baking.
• Herb swap: Use another dried herb in place of the oregano.
• Peppery finish: Add a few grinds of black pepper with the other toppings.
• Smaller pieces: Cut the loaf into shorter sections before topping for individual servings.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Uneven butter: Bare patches can toast differently; spread the melted butter across the full cut surface.
• Too much garlic in one spot: Concentrated patches can overpower a bite; scatter the minced garlic evenly.
• Skipping the crust rub: Use the halved clove on the loaf's outside before cutting to include this gentle garlic step.
• Overbaking: The bread can become too dark; check it around 8 minutes and remove it when golden.
• Slicing too soon: The hot topping may shift; let the loaf rest briefly before cutting.

How to store

Store leftover bread in an airtight container in the fridge and use within 2–3 days. Reheat in an oven until warmed through and crisp; the bread may soften in the fridge.

Frequently asked questions