Perfect Homemade Garlic Bread

Nothing complements a hearty Italian meal or a cozy soup night quite like a slice of warm, homemade garlic bread. It’s a classic favorite that’s simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser. In this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll learn how to create the most flavorful and buttery garlic bread right in your own kitchen in just a few steps.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of fresh Italian or French bread
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt to taste
• Optional: 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or red pepper flakes for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the bread loaf in half horizontally, laying out the two halves with the cut side up.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and salt. If desired, add in the optional dried herbs or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
5. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, cut side up, and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is crispy on the edges and the butter is bubbling.
6. For a golden-brown finish, you may broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes, but watch it closely to prevent burning.
7. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for a minute before slicing.
8. Serve the garlic bread warm, either as a complement to your main dish or as an appetizer with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

You can customize your homemade garlic bread by:

• Using roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, milder flavor.
• Adding shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese on top before baking for a cheesy garlic bread version.
• Drizzling a little olive oil over the bread before adding the garlic butter for an extra moist and rich flavor.
• Substituting fresh basil or cilantro for parsley, depending on your taste and the dishes you’re pairing it with.

Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet delectable homemade garlic bread recipe. Enjoy it alongside your favorite pasta, salad, or soup and savor the comfort of this timeless culinary delight.