Name: Crispy Garlic Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 large French baguette or Italian bread; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 4 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)

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Introduction

Crispy Garlic Bread is a simple yet delicious side dish that complements pasta, soups, and salads perfectly. With its buttery, garlicky flavor and golden, crunchy texture, it’s an easy favorite for any meal. This recipe uses just a few ingredients and comes together quickly for a satisfying treat.

The image shows six slices of toasted garlic bread arranged close together on a white plate. Each slice has a golden-brown crust with a soft, slightly spongy inside visible around the edges. The top layer of the bread is covered with finely chopped green parsley and small pieces of white garlic bits spread evenly, giving a textured and speckled look. The bread surface also has a glistening shine, likely from butter or oil, with some darker, crispier spots from toasting. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, adding a light and clean background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 large French baguette or Italian bread
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
4 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Cut the French baguette or Italian bread in half lengthwise. For smaller pieces, you can also slice the bread individually.
Step 4: Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up. Bake for 10–15 minutes until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice if not already done. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top before baking for a cheesy version.
Try herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for a different flavor profile.
For a spicy kick, mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the garlic butter.
Use softened butter to ensure the mixture spreads easily and evenly.
Watch the bread closely while baking to avoid burning; you want it crisp and golden.

Storage

Enjoy crispy garlic bread fresh for the best taste. You can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the bread in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crisp again.

How to Serve

A white plate holds five thick slices of toasted bread, each piece showing a golden brown crust around the edges and a crunchy texture. The top of each slice has a spread made of finely chopped green herbs, likely parsley, mixed with small white bits of garlic and melted butter, giving a shiny, slightly oily look. The bread itself is light yellow inside with a soft crumb texture, contrasting with the crispy toasted surface. The background is a white marbled texture, adding a clean and simple feel to the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, garlic powder works as a substitute. Use about 1 teaspoon to achieve a similar garlicky flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance and keep it refrigerated. Spread it on the bread and bake just before serving for maximum freshness.