Here’s a simple and delicious homemade garlic bread recipe for you:
Ingredients for Homemade garlic bread recipe:
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir until well combined.
- Slice the Bread: Cut the loaf of bread in half horizontally. Place the two halves on a baking sheet.
- Spread the Garlic Butter: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface.
- Optional: Add Cheese: If you like, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the buttered bread for an extra cheesy touch.
- Bake in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly (if using).
- Broil for a Crispy Top (Optional): If you want a crispier top, you can turn on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes, but be sure to watch it closely to prevent burning.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute. Slice into pieces and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious homemade garlic bread!
FAQs
Is garlic powder or garlic salt better for garlic bread?
Either garlic powder or minced fresh garlic is typically preferred for garlic bread. Garlic salt may add too much sodium and alter the balance of flavors. However, if using garlic powder, it’s advisable to add additional salt separately to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
What is garlic bread made of?
Garlic bread is made from a base of bread, often French or Italian, that is typically sliced horizontally. The bread is then spread with a mixture of butter, minced garlic, and often fresh herbs like parsley. Some variations may include grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese.
What is the difference between garlic bread and garlic toast?
While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there can be a subtle difference. Garlic bread often implies the use of softer bread, like a baguette, and is usually baked until the top is crispy. Garlic toast, on the other hand, is often made with slices of bread that are toasted, either in a toaster or an oven, and then spread with the garlic and butter mixture.
Is garlic bread healthy yes or no?
Garlic bread, while delicious, is generally considered a less healthy option due to its high butter and sometimes cheese content. The white bread used in traditional recipes may lack the nutritional benefits of whole-grain bread. However, moderation is key, and you can make it slightly healthier by using whole-grain bread, reducing the amount of butter, and incorporating fresh herbs for added flavor without excessive calories.