Soft and Golden Garlic Bread

This garlic bread transforms any ordinary meal into something special. The perfect balance of butter, garlic, and herbs creates that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen and makes everyone ask what smells so good. Crispy on the outside, soft and flavorful inside, this recipe has been my go-to side for pasta nights for years.

I first created this recipe when I needed a quick side dish for impromptu dinner guests. What started as a simple solution has become the most requested item whenever friends come over for pasta night. Even my bread-avoiding neighbor asks for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 loaf Italian or French bread: The foundation of good garlic bread starts with quality bread. Look for something with a slightly crisp crust and soft interior.
• 8 T softened butter: Provides richness and helps create that perfect golden crust. Room temperature butter is essential for proper spreading.
• 1 T mayonnaise: My secret ingredient that adds incredible moisture and richness to the spread. Trust me on this one.
• Pinch of Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
• 5 garlic cloves minced: The star of the show. Fresh garlic provides the most vibrant flavor but must be minced finely.
• ½ t oregano: Adds that classic Italian herb flavor that makes this garlic bread special.
• ½ t garlic powder: Reinforces the garlic flavor with a deeper, more mellow note.
• Pinch of red pepper flakes: Creates a subtle heat that balances the richness. Completely optional but highly recommended.
• 3 T grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory umami quality. Both fresh and canned work well here.
• Chopped parsley or scallions: Adds fresh color and a bright flavor contrast.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Position your rack in the middle of the oven and preheat to 425°F. This high temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

Make Butter Spread:

With an immersion blender beat the softened butter and mayonnaise until smooth and luscious. If you do not have an immersion blender, use a fork and vigorously stir until completely combined. The mayonnaise will disappear into the butter creating an ultrarich spread.

Add Flavors:

Stir in salt, minced garlic, oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes if using, and Parmesan cheese. Mix until every ingredient is evenly distributed throughout the butter mixture. Take a moment to appreciate the amazing aroma already developing.

Prepare Bread:

Slice your bread horizontally through the middle into two equal halves. Place both halves on a baking sheet with the cut sides facing up. This even surface makes for perfect buttery coverage.

Apply Butter Mixture:

Generously spread each bread half with equal amounts of the butter mixture. Be sure to spread it all the way to the edges for maximum flavor impact. The butter layer should be thick enough to see but not so thick it drips off.

Bake To Perfection:

Place in the preheated oven for 10 minutes until the butter melts into the bread. Then turn on the broiler to high and let the bread turn golden brown. Watch carefully as this happens quickly usually within 2 to 3 minutes. The goal is a beautiful golden color with slightly darker edges.

Slice And Serve:

Remove from oven and using kitchen shears, cut bread into serving slices. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or scallions if using. Serve immediately while hot and aromatic.

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The combination of fresh garlic and garlic powder might seem redundant, but it creates layers of garlic flavor that make this bread irresistible. I discovered this technique after experimenting with dozens of garlic bread recipes, and my family unanimously agreed this version had the most balanced, aromatic garlic presence without being overwhelming.

Make Ahead Options

This garlic bread is perfect for busy weeknights because you can prepare it hours before baking. Simply spread the butter mixture on the bread, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This actually allows the flavors to meld and intensify, creating an even more flavorful final product. Just remember to let the bread sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before baking.

Variations To Try

While this classic recipe is perfect as is, it's also wonderfully adaptable. For a cheesier version, add 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top during the last few minutes of baking. For herb lovers, double the oregano and add 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary. You can also create a spicier version by doubling the red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic bread pairs beautifully with almost any Italian dish, from spaghetti and meatballs to lasagna. It's also perfect alongside a simple green salad for a light lunch. For appetizer portions, cut the bread into smaller pieces after baking. My favorite way to serve it is alongside a bowl of tomato soup on rainy evenings the bread becomes the perfect vehicle for sopping up every last drop.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make my garlic bread crispy on top?

After baking at 425°F, turn on the broiler for a few minutes to achieve a crispy, golden top. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.

→ Can I prep garlic bread in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the bread by spreading the butter mixture, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake as usual when needed.

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

French baguettes, Italian bread, or any crusty loaf work well, providing the perfect base for the buttery topping.

→ Can I substitute Parmesan cheese?

Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano or another sharp, hard cheese for a similar flavor profile.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or serve the bread with a spicy dipping sauce for more heat.