Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenience: No need to run to the bakery; use any sliced bread you have on hand.
- Cost-Effective: More affordable than artisanal breads.
- Versatility: Works with white, whole wheat, sourdough, or any bread you prefer.
- Reduces Waste: A perfect way to use up stale bread, giving it new life as delicious garlic bread.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of sliced bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Spread Butter Mixture: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture onto one side of each bread slice.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the buttered slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm alongside your favorite dishes.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Sprinkle grated mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the buttered slices before baking for a cheesy delight.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a subtle heat.
- Herb Infused: Incorporate other fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
- Vegan Option: Use a plant-based butter substitute to make this recipe vegan-friendly.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the bread on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
FAQs
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Any sliced bread such as white, whole wheat, or sourdough works well. Choose a bread that you enjoy and have readily available.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, if fresh garlic is unavailable, you can substitute with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder. However, fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a dairy-free or vegan butter alternative to accommodate dietary restrictions.
How can I make the bread extra crispy?
For a crispier texture, after baking, place the bread under the broiler for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Bring it to room temperature before spreading on the bread.
What dishes pair well with garlic bread?
Garlic bread complements a variety of dishes, including pasta, soups, stews, and salads. It’s also great as a standalone snack.
Can I freeze the prepared garlic bread?
Yes, assemble the garlic bread without baking, then freeze the slices on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Ensure the garlic is finely minced and evenly mixed into the butter. This helps it cook gently without burning during baking.
Can I add cheese to the garlic butter mixture?
Certainly! Mixing grated Parmesan into the garlic butter adds a delicious cheesy flavor throughout the bread.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?
While fresh herbs provide the best flavor, dried herbs can be used in a pinch. Use half the amount of dried herbs as you would fresh.
Conclusion
Transforming ordinary sliced bread into delectable garlic bread is both simple and rewarding. This versatile recipe allows for creativity, accommodating various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re serving it alongside a hearty pasta dish or enjoying it as a savory snack, this homemade garlic bread is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Happy cooking!
Easy Homemade Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elevate your meals with this easy homemade garlic bread recipe using sliced bread! Perfect for any occasion, it’s cost-effective, versatile, and delicious. Learn how to make garlic-infused bread in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of sliced bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Garlic Butter: Combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and black pepper in a bowl until evenly mixed.
- Spread Butter Mixture: Spread the mixture onto one side of each bread slice.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Lay the buttered slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake: Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite dishes.
Notes
- For a cheesy variation, sprinkle grated cheese before baking.
- Use red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- A vegan option is available by substituting butter with a plant-based alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
