Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup (8 Tbsp; 113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 Tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley
• 4 teaspoons finely minced fresh garlic (about 3 cloves)
• 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt (or 1/8 teaspoon fine salt)
• optional: 1/3 cup (27g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 12-ounce (340g) loaf of crusty bread, sliced in half horizontally
• pinch of crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Place both halves of the bread, cut side up, on the prepared baking sheet.

2. 2

   Prepare garlic butter: Using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat together the softened butter, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, salt, and parmesan cheese (if using) on medium-high speed until fully combined and smooth. Alternatively, if the butter is soft enough, use a fork to mash and mix the ingredients thoroughly.

3. 3

   Spread the garlic butter: Evenly spread the prepared garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread halves, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.

4. 4

   Bake the bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 16–18 minutes. Bake until the edges of the bread turn crispy and golden brown. For a crunchier crust, you may extend the baking time by a couple of minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.

5. 5

   Cool and garnish: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes until it is cool enough to handle. If desired, sprinkle the surface with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat and flavor.

6. 6

   Slice and serve: Transfer the garlic bread to a cutting board. Using a serrated bread knife, slice the loaf into individual pieces. Serve warm for the best taste experience.

7. 7

   Storage: Cover any leftover garlic bread tightly and store at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.