How to Make Garlic Bread in Oven with Regular Bread: Easy Recipe to Try at Home
To make garlic bread in the oven with regular bread, start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Mix together softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Slice the bread, spread the garlic butter mixture on each slice, and wrap in foil. Place the foil-wrapped bread in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the bread is crispy. Enjoy your delicious homemade garlic bread!
Garlic bread is a beloved side dish that’s easy to make at home using regular bread and your oven. Here’s how to make garlic bread with a few simple ingredients and techniques to give it that perfect crisp, garlic flavor.
Key Takeaways: Garlic bread made with regular bread in an oven requires spreading garlic butter on slices, baking them until crisp, and optionally garnishing with parsley or cheese for added flavor.
How to Make Garlic Bread in Oven with Regular Bread
Making garlic bread from regular bread is not only easy but also a fantastic way to elevate a simple loaf. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get the perfect crunchy, garlicky bite every time.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
To make garlic bread in your oven, you will need the following ingredients:
- Regular bread (any type of bread works, but French or Italian loaves are recommended)
- Butter (softened, preferably unsalted)
- Fresh garlic (minced)
- Salt
- Fresh parsley (optional)
- Grated parmesan or mozzarella cheese (optional)
- Olive oil (optional, for added flavor)
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter
The key to perfect garlic bread is in the garlic butter. Start by mixing softened butter with minced garlic. For every four slices of bread, you’ll need about 2-3 cloves of garlic. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. If you like a richer flavor, drizzle a small amount of olive oil into the mixture.
For an extra burst of flavor, chop some fresh parsley and add it to the butter mixture. This adds freshness and a slight herbaceous note that balances the richness of the butter.
Step 3: Spread the Garlic Butter
Once your garlic butter is ready, generously spread it on each slice of bread. Make sure you coat the bread evenly for consistent flavor. If you want to make it extra indulgent, sprinkle some grated parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top of the butter for a cheesy garlic bread variation.
Step 4: Bake in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the bread turn golden and crispy. For an extra crispy finish, switch to the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on the bread to prevent it from burning.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once your garlic bread is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. If desired, garnish with more fresh parsley for color and a touch of freshness. Serve it as a side to pasta, soups, or as a snack on its own.
Using Garlic Variations for Different Flavors
Experimenting with different types of garlic and spices can enhance the flavor of your garlic bread. Some people prefer roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste, while others might opt for garlic powder if they want a subtler garlic flavor without the strong bite of fresh garlic.
For added depth, you can infuse your butter with herbs like thyme or rosemary. These herbs work particularly well if you plan to serve the garlic bread with dishes like roast meats or hearty stews.
Adding Cheese for Extra Flavor
If you’re a cheese lover, garlic bread provides the perfect base for adding cheese. Mozzarella gives you a melty, gooey texture, while parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. Simply sprinkle the cheese on top of the buttered bread before baking, or melt it over the bread in the final few minutes of cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make garlic bread without butter?
Yes, you can use olive oil as a substitute for butter. It gives the bread a slightly different, but equally delicious flavor profile. Mix the olive oil with minced garlic and spread it on the bread as you would with butter.
2. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Absolutely! Garlic powder can be used if you prefer a more subtle flavor or don’t have fresh garlic on hand. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 2 tablespoons of butter.
3. What type of bread is best for garlic bread?
While regular sandwich bread works, French bread or Italian loaves are ideal because they offer a thicker, more rustic texture that holds up well to the garlic butter.
4. How can I make garlic bread in advance?
You can prepare garlic bread ahead of time by spreading the garlic butter on the bread and freezing it. When you’re ready to eat, bake the frozen slices directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes.
5. Can I add other seasonings to garlic bread?
Yes! You can experiment with seasonings like oregano, basil, or red pepper flakes for added flavor. These spices complement the garlic and butter beautifully, giving your bread a unique twist.
For those who want to enjoy fresh homemade bread regularly, having a bread maker can save time and effort. Consider checking out bestbreadmaker.store for the best options available, especially if you’re a fan of freshly baked garlic bread!