Garlic Butter Bread Loaf

When I first discovered garlic butter bread, it was a chilly evening, and I craved something simple yet comforting. The smell of garlic melting into butter filled the kitchen and instantly felt like a warm hug from the inside out.

I remember the first time unexpected guests stopped by and I whipped this up with whatever I had. Seeing their delighted smiles as they tore into the warm bread made me realize this recipe was a keeper.

Ingredients

• Bread: Choose a large French baguette or Italian loaf for the ideal crust to soft crumb ratio
• Unsalted Butter: Softened butter lets the garlic and herbs meld seamlessly
• Garlic: Freshly minced cloves give that punch of flavor, don't skimp here
• Parsley: Finely chopped for a fresh, green note, though swapping with chives or basil works too
• Salt and Pepper: Just enough to balance and highlight the flavors
• Parmesan Cheese (optional): Adds a savory richness that melts beautifully over the butter

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line your baking sheet with parchment paper to keep things tidy and prevent sticking.

Slice and Prep the Bread:

Cut the baguette in half horizontally so the butter can soak into every nook and cranny. Place the halves cut side up on your sheet, inviting the garlic butter to really shine.

Mix Your Garlic Butter:

In a bowl, blend softened butter with garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Parmesan if you're using it. The aroma here is incredible already.

Spread the Love:

Carefully slather your garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of bread, making sure to get every edge.

Bake to Perfection:

Pop it in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes until the edges turn golden and you see the butter bubbling like a little celebration on top. For that extra crisp finish, broil for 1 to 2 minutes—watch it closely!

Slice and Serve:

Once out and warm, cut into slices and enjoy the comforting flavors right away.

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This bread quickly became more than just a side—it's been part of celebrations, last-minute dinners, and moments when sharing something made even simple days special.

Keeping It Fresh

Leftovers reheat beautifully in a toaster oven or under the broiler for a few minutes to bring back that crisp crust and melty garlic butter goodness.

When You're Missing Something

If you don't have fresh garlic or parsley, garlic powder and dried herbs can work in a pinch, though fresh will always have the brightest flavor.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

This bread pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, hearty soups, or tossed salads for a quick and complete meal.

• For a cheesy twist, add shredded mozzarella right before baking
• Try swapping parsley with basil for a sweet, aromatic note
• Don't forget to use parchment paper to avoid any mess

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Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me—hope this recipe brings as much comfort and joy to your table as it does to mine.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best?

A large French baguette or Italian loaf is ideal due to its crusty exterior and soft crumb.

→ Can I add cheese to the butter mixture?

Yes, grated Parmesan cheese can be added for extra flavor, or mozzarella can be sprinkled on top before baking.

→ How do I achieve a crispy crust?

Baking at 200°C (400°F) until edges turn golden, followed by a short broil, enhances crispiness.

→ Are there alternative herbs to parsley?

Chives or fresh basil work well and provide different aromatic notes.

→ How should the garlic butter be applied?

Spread the softened garlic butter evenly over the cut side of the bread halves before baking.