The Best Garlic Bread – Homemade Garlic Butter on Crusty Loaf

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to journey back to the comforting aromas of a warm family kitchen? There’s something timeless about a loaf pulled fresh from the oven, its crust singing as it cools, its scent filling the room with memories of gatherings, shared laughter, and the simple joy of a homemade meal. Garlic bread, especially in its rustic, traditional form, carries a charm that feels both humble and celebratory. It’s the kind of dish that has followed generations—served beside simmering stews, hearty pasta, or even enjoyed alone with nothing more than a good pat of butter and a moment of quiet pleasure.

In the old days, garlic bread wasn’t just a side—it was a way to stretch ingredients, to bring life to a day-old loaf, and to fill homes with warmth. Today, we still cherish it for the very same reasons. This recipe honors that tradition with a fragrant mixture of garlic, butter, herbs, and a crusty loaf that brings everything together beautifully.

So, let’s embrace this comforting classic with both hands, crafting it slowly, with care and respect for the flavors that have made it beloved across generations. Let’s make something truly delicious, one slice at a time. 🍞🧄❤️

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Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh basil or 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp oregano
• Pinch of sea salt
• Pinch of black pepper
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan

For the Bread:

• 1 large crusty loaf (French bread or Italian boule)
• Olive oil for brushing (optional)

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Begin by preparing the fragrant garlic butter. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with minced garlic, fresh herbs, salt, and black pepper. If using Parmesan, fold it in as well. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
2. Slice your crusty loaf in half lengthwise. If you prefer smaller pieces, cut each half again into sections for easier serving later.
3. Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut surface of each piece of bread. Ensure the butter gets into every nook—this is what creates those perfectly golden, flavorful bites.
4. If desired, brush the crust lightly with olive oil to help it crisp beautifully while baking.
5. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the bread on a baking sheet, butter-side up.
6. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges begin to turn golden and the butter has melted deeply into the loaf.
7. For a more toasted finish, switch to broil for the final 1–2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning—traditional kitchens might say this final moment requires the cook’s full attention.
8. Remove from the oven and let sit for a minute before slicing. Serve warm, aromatic, and irresistible.

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Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 12 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 22 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~210 | 🍽️ Servings: 8

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️