Homemade Garlic Bread (That’s Better Than an Italian Restaurant!)

5 from 6 votes

Homemade Garlic Bread (That’s Better Than an Italian Restaurant!)

Here's my ultimate homemade garlic bread recipe that's buttery and bursting with garlic flavor. With crispy edges and soft middles, it's irresistibly delicious!

Prep Time5

Cook Time10

Course: Side Dish

Cuisine: American, Italian

Keyword: Best Garlic Bread, Homemade Garlic Bread, Homemade Garlic Bread Recipe

Servings:

Author: Jennifer Pallian BSc, RD

Ingredients

1 12-oz loaf of French bread (or ciabbata/baguette)
12 tbsp salted butter softened
4 cloves fresh garlic minced
½ tsp garlic powder
2 tbsp finely-chopped fresh parsley or 2 tsp dried
Optional: 1-2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for cheesy garlic bread

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut the bread in half lengthwise and place it on a baking sheet.
In a bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder and parsley.
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on both halves of the bread.
If making cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle mozzarella on top.
Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are crispy and golden. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end (watch it closely!).
Slice and serve hot.

Notes

1. Don’t use cold or melted butter – Cold butter won’t spread evenly, and melted butter soaks in instead of coating the bread.
2. Use the full amount of butter – More butter = restaurant-quality garlic bread. Trust me, it’s worth it!
3. Don't bake too hot: High heat can make garlic burn before the bread is done. Stick to a moderate 375°F.
4. Use both fresh and dried garlic – Fresh garlic adds bold, punchy flavor, while garlic powder gives a warm, toasty depth. The combo makes the best garlic bread!

Nutrition