Do you crave the kind of garlic bread that’s golden, crispy on the edges, and deliciously soft in the center? The kind that makes any pasta night feel complete with just one bite? This Crispy Garlic Bread recipe delivers all that and more, with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor.

Infused with buttery richness, fresh parsley, and minced garlic, this garlic bread is as inviting as it is irresistible. Whether you’re pairing it with a hearty lasagna or dipping it into tomato soup, this quick-bake favorite will steal the show from the main course.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you begin, have these essentials at hand:

Serrated Bread Knife: A good serrated knife ensures clean slices without crushing the bread.
Mixing Bowl: Perfect for combining your garlic butter mixture evenly.
Pastry Brush or Spoon: To spread the garlic butter on each slice for maximum flavor coverage.
Baking Sheet: Provides even heat and crispness to each bread slice.
Parchment Paper (Optional): Helps reduce cleanup and prevents sticking.

Having these tools prepped and ready helps streamline the process, making your garlic bread not just tasty but also easy to whip up.

Ingredients for the Crispy Garlic Bread

Baguette or Italian Bread: The base for your garlic bread. Choose one with a sturdy crust and soft interior to soak up the garlic butter while toasting up nicely.
Unsalted Butter: It adds richness and melds perfectly with garlic. Using unsalted allows you to control the seasoning.
Fresh Garlic: The hero of this recipe. Minced garlic infuses deep, savory flavor.
Parsley (Fresh): Brings brightness and a pop of color, balancing the richness of butter.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and rounds out the garlic intensity.
Olive Oil (Optional): A slight drizzle adds extra crispiness and depth of flavor.

How To Make the Crispy Garlic Bread

Step 1: Prep the Bread

Slice your baguette or Italian bread into even slices, about 1-inch thick. Lay them flat on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In a mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter, minced fresh garlic, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt. Mix until well combined. For added crispness, stir in a teaspoon of olive oil.

Step 3: Butter the Bread

Use a pastry brush or the back of a spoon to generously spread the garlic butter mixture over each slice of bread.

Step 4: Bake Until Crispy

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the slices for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crisp but the center is still soft.

Step 5: Optional Broil Finish

For extra crunch and a beautifully browned top, broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.

Serving and Storing Crispy Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is best enjoyed straight from the oven, when it’s warm, aromatic, and delightfully crisp. Serve it as a side with pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo or tomato-based classics, or offer it with soups and salads for a cozy, well-rounded meal.

To store leftovers, let the slices cool completely, then wrap them in foil or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to revive that perfect crunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep garlic bread from getting soggy?

Use a baking sheet and avoid overloading with butter. Broiling at the end also helps keep it crispy.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, if you’re out of fresh garlic. Use ½ teaspoon garlic powder per clove as a substitute.

Can I freeze garlic bread?

Absolutely! After spreading the butter mixture on the slices, freeze them in a single layer. Once solid, store in a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Is it okay to use salted butter?

You can, but reduce or skip the added salt to keep the seasoning balanced.

What bread works best?

A crusty baguette or Italian loaf holds up well to the butter and bakes to a perfect crisp.

Can I add cheese?

Yes! Sprinkle with grated Parmesan or mozzarella before baking for a cheesy twist.

Want More Bread Appetizer Ideas?

You might also like the Homemade Breadsticks, which are soft, chewy, and perfect with a warm marinara dip. Or try the Olive Oil Garlic Flatbread, which is excellent for sharing and brings a rustic charm to the table.

For more classic bakes, check out the Cheese Stuffed Dinner Rolls—they’re fluffy inside with a gooey center. Or explore the Herbed Focaccia, which features a fragrant mix of rosemary and sea salt.

Want something quicker? The 15-Minute Bruschetta Toast is a crisp, tomato-topped appetizer that’s both simple and crowd-pleasing.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try a cheesy topping? Did you use sourdough instead of baguette? Leave a comment below. I’m always curious how others make it their own.

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Crispy Garlic Bread

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Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Savory Garlic Butter Green Beans are a quick, flavorful side dish that elevates any meal. Lightly blanched and sautéed with aromatic garlic butter, these green beans offer a bright, crisp, and buttery bite with just a hint of lemon. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive holiday meal, they add vibrant color and flavor to your plate.