Garlic Bread with Herb Butter

The smell of garlic hitting melted butter stops me in my tracks every time. I started making garlic bread on a whim during college when store-bought frozen options left me disappointed after one too many soggy attempts. Something magical happens when fresh parsley meets that aromatic butter mixture.

Last summer I served these alongside a simple tomato soup for dinner guests who actually asked for the recipe before even finishing their bowls. Watching people reach for seconds while the butter still glistens on warm bread makes all the prep worthwhile.

Ingredients

• Bread: A fresh baguette or Italian loaf works best, sliced about 2 cm thick for that perfect crunch to soft interior ratio
• Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature so it blends seamlessly with garlic and herbs without any lumps
• Fresh garlic: Three cloves finely minced gives you that robust aroma without being overwhelming
• Fresh parsley: Two tablespoons adds brightness and that classic green speckled look
• Fresh chives: One tablespoon brings a mild onion sweetness that rounds out the garlic
• Salt and pepper: Half a teaspoon salt and a quarter teaspoon pepper enhance all the flavors
• Parmesan cheese: Forty grams grated on top creates a savory golden crust if you want extra indulgence

Instructions

Preheat to 200°C or fire up the grill:

Getting your oven or grill hot beforehand ensures the butter melts into the bread while creating those gorgeous golden edges

Mix the garlic butter:

Combine softened butter with garlic, parsley, chives, salt and pepper until everything is evenly distributed and fragrant

Prepare the bread:

Arrange slices on a parchment lined baking tray leaving some space between each piece

Spread generously:

Cover each slice with a thick layer of butter mixture reaching almost to the edges

Add cheese if desired:

Sprinkle Parmesan over the buttered tops for an extra savory crispy layer

Bake until golden:

Cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the tops are golden and the bread feels crisp but still tender inside

Serve immediately:

Bring them to the table warm while the butter is still melty and irresistible

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My youngest daughter now requests this for every pasta night, and I have caught her sneaking slices right off the cooling rack more times than I can count. Those little moments of kitchen joy make this simple recipe worth keeping.

Bread Selection Secrets

Sourdough adds a tangy depth while whole grain brings nuttiness and extra texture. Day old bread actually crisps up better than fresh, so do not worry about using a slightly older loaf.

Flavor Variations

A pinch of chili flakes transforms this into something spicy and bold. Lemon zest folded into the butter brightens everything for summer meals, while vegan butter works surprisingly well if you need dairy free options.

Perfect Pairings

This garlic bread complements almost any pasta dish, from rich red sauces to delicate white wine based preparations. It also elevates simple soups and green salads into complete satisfying meals.

• Make extra butter mixture and freeze it in logs for future use
• Grilling adds a smoky char that tastes amazing with the garlic
• Leftovers can be revived in a toaster oven the next day

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Warm garlic bread on the table turns an ordinary dinner into something special. Hope this recipe brings as many happy moments to your kitchen as it has to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make the garlic butter extra flavorful?

Mix softened butter thoroughly with freshly minced garlic cloves rather than powdered garlic. Add finely chopped fresh parsley and chives for herb brightness. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes before spreading to meld flavors. A pinch of chili flakes adds gentle warmth.

→ Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?

Absolutely. The garlic butter mixture can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored refrigerated in an airtight container. Bring to room temperature before spreading for easy application. You can also freeze the butter for up to 3 months.

→ What bread works best for crispy results?

Baguette and Italian loaves provide ideal texture—crusty exterior with soft interior. Sourdough adds tangy depth while whole grain offers nuttiness. Slice about 2cm thick for substantial pieces that hold up well under butter and heat without becoming soggy.

→ Is grilling better than baking?

Both methods deliver delicious results with distinct characteristics. Baking at 200°C ensures even, consistent browning—perfect for batches. Grilling creates appealing char marks and smoky notes, grilling 2-3 minutes per side. Choose based on your equipment and preference.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store completely cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Avoid refrigeration as it accelerates staling. Reheat in a 180°C oven for 5 minutes to restore crispiness, or use a toaster oven for smaller portions. Microwave not recommended.