Simple Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe

Looking for a comforting side dish that will impress your guests? Try our simple homemade garlic bread recipe! This classic accompaniment can be made in 30 minutes and serves up to 6 people perfectly.

Gather the following ingredients:

• 2 large French baguettes
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced or crushed
• 1/4 cup butter, softened
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (205°C).

Cut the French baguettes in half lengthwise, taking care not to cut all the way through so that you can spread the garlic butter inside. You will now have two open-ended halves.

Mix together the softened butter and minced garlic until well combined. Spread this mixture generously onto each half of the baguette using a knife or brush. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if desired. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.

Place both halves back into their respective loaf pans cut-side down. Bake in preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes until golden brown on top and slightly crusty outside while still soft inside.

To serve, slice diagonally across the baguettes to create thick slices of garlic bread. Garnish each piece with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately alongside your main course or as a side dish for brunch.

Additional Tips & Variations:

• Variation: For those who prefer extra flavor, try adding 1/4 teaspoon of dried rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter mixture. Rosemary-infused garlic bread pairs wonderfully with chicken dishes.
• Another variation could involve replacing half of the Parmesan cheese used in the recipe with chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
• To add more moisture to your bread while it bakes, place a small bowl filled with water next to it inside the oven. This technique helps create steam, which makes the garlic bread softer and easier to slice later on when fully cooled.

Tips for Success: When spreading the garlic butter mixture between the baguette halves, try not to pack it too tightly or overfill as this can cause the bread to collapse during baking. Instead, apply a thin layer evenly across each surface so that when baked; it puffs up nicely creating a delightful crispy texture.

The key to perfect homemade garlic bread is achieving just the right balance between soft and crispy textures. Over-baking will lead to burnt edges while underbaked loaves might remain too doughy in centers.

Conclusion

With these simple steps, you can easily create delicious homemade garlic bread at home! The rich garlicky flavor complements almost any meal, whether it's a casual dinner party or family gathering. Whether paired with pasta dishes, grilled meats, or enjoyed as part of a buffet spread, this versatile side dish is sure to be an instant favorite for everyone.

Remember that cooking time can slightly vary depending on the size and type of bread used; always check them towards the end of baking by gently pressing the top. If it springs back immediately, your garlic bread is ready! Enjoy your delicious homemade garlic bread!

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 6 people