Ingredients
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced or pressed
- ½ cup salted butter, softened
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano
- ¼ cup fresh chopped parsley
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Bread
- 1 loaf Italian or French bread
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 450°F (232°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for toasting the bread.
- Prepare garlic butter mixture: In a small bowl, combine the pressed or minced garlic with softened salted butter, olive oil, grated Parmigiano Reggiano, freshly chopped parsley, and kosher salt. Mix thoroughly until you achieve a smooth, evenly blended garlic butter spread.
- Cut and spread bread: Slice the loaf of Italian or French bread lengthwise so you have two large halves. Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture on the cut side of each half, covering the entire surface for maximum flavor.
- Bake garlic bread: Place the buttered bread halves with the cut side up on a sheet pan or directly on the oven rack to allow even heat circulation. Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and golden around the edges.
- Serve: Remove the toasted garlic bread from the oven, cut it into approximately 2-inch pieces, and serve warm as a delicious side or appetizer.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; avoid garlic powder substitutes.
- Softened butter is essential for easy mixing and even spreading.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the bread for 1-2 minutes after baking—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Parsley can be substituted with fresh basil or oregano for a different herbal note.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference.
- This garlic bread is best served immediately but can be reheated briefly in the oven.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
