WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Garlic bread is one of those universally loved sides that can easily steal the show. With its buttery, garlicky aroma and perfectly golden crust, this homemade version beats any store-bought alternative. Whether served alongside a saucy pasta or as part of an appetizer spread, it delivers comfort in every bite.

What sets this homemade garlic bread apart is its balance of crisp edges and soft, fluffy insides. Made with real butter, fresh garlic, and herbs, it’s the kind of recipe that turns even an ordinary dinner into something memorable. Plus, it takes minimal effort for maximum payoff.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Garlic Bread

You’ll love this garlic bread because it checks all the boxes: it’s fast, fuss-free, and so flavorful. No preservatives, just real, everyday ingredients that come together in under 20 minutes. It’s the ultimate sidekick for soups, pasta, and casseroles, or just enjoyed on its own.

This is also one of those recipes that you can easily make ahead or freeze. The aroma alone is worth it, but the taste? Pure satisfaction with every garlicky, buttery bite.

What Kind of Bread Should I Use for Homemade Garlic Bread?

French bread or Italian loaf are ideal choices. You want something with a sturdy crust and a soft interior so that it crisps up beautifully but still soaks in all that flavorful butter. Avoid sandwich bread—it just doesn’t hold up as well. You can also use a baguette for a crunchier version.

Ingredients for the Homemade Garlic Bread

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You don’t need a long list of ingredients—just a few kitchen staples that work in harmony to create the perfect flavor and texture.

• French bread: The structure of the loaf allows it to crisp nicely while the inside stays soft and pillowy.
• Unsalted butter: This gives you full control over the saltiness and provides that rich, melt-in-your-mouth base.
• Fresh garlic: The star of the show. Grated or finely minced, it infuses the butter with robust flavor.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens up the richness of the garlic and butter.
• Salt: A pinch balances out the butter and enhances the garlic.
• Olive oil: Adds a subtle earthiness and helps with even crisping.
• Grated Parmesan (optional): For an extra hit of umami and a cheesy top.

How To Make the Homemade Garlic Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice your bread in half horizontally. Place both halves cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Spread Generously

Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each half of the bread. Make sure you get all the way to the edges.

Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional)

If using Parmesan, sprinkle it over the top of the buttered bread.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, until the edges are golden and crispy. If you like a bit of char, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice into thick pieces and serve warm.

How to Serve and Store Homemade Garlic Bread

Homemade garlic bread is best served fresh out of the oven, hot and fragrant. It feeds about 6 people as a side dish. You can keep leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through—this will help maintain the crispiness.

To freeze, wrap the buttered but unbaked bread halves in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to serve, bake straight from frozen at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.

What to Serve With Homemade Garlic Bread?

Classic Spaghetti with Marinara

A timeless pairing. The garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of that rich tomato sauce.

Creamy Mushroom Sauce for Steak

If you’re going for a luxurious meal, this creamy mushroom sauce is an ideal match.

Easy Chicken Fried Rice

Add some garlic bread on the side for a fusion twist that just works.

Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup

The crisp, garlicky bread balances out the creamy, zesty flavor of this hearty soup.

Dirty Rice with Ground Beef

A flavorful, bold combo where the garlic bread can act as a scoop or palate cleanser.

BBQ Chicken Pizza

The garlicky richness complements the tangy and smoky barbecue flavor so well.

Loaded Cheese Fries

Turn your dinner into a full-blown comfort fest with this over-the-top combo.

Want More Bread Side Ideas?

If you love this garlic bread, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Rounds for a cheesy crunch in veggie form.
• Air Fryer Pizza Toast when you want a fast, pizza-flavored bite.
• Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Cheesy Breadsticks for a satisfying meaty snack.
• Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions if you’re craving something different but equally comforting.
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for an ultra-savory stuffed bread experience.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add herbs or go extra cheesy? Did you use sourdough instead of French bread?

I love seeing how you make these recipes your own. Feel free to ask questions too—we’re all learning and sharing together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and daily recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next go-to dish.

Conclusion

Homemade garlic bread is more than a side—it’s a show-stealer. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and can elevate any meal with its buttery crunch. Whether you’re serving it for guests or just treating yourself midweek, it’s always a welcome addition at the table.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?