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Crispy Homemade Garlic Bread with Herb Butter

crispy homemade garlic bread - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy garlic bread with a flavorful herb butter spread, perfect as a snack or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf crusty French bread or baguette (about 12 inches/30 cm), day-old recommended
  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened (room temperature)
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • Optional toppings: red pepper flakes, chopped chives or basil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 4 minced garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/8 teaspoon black pepper. Add 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan if using. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. Using a serrated knife, cut the baguette into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick slices. For extra crispiness, slice all the way through. Alternatively, slice partially through the loaf lengthwise, then crosswise into thick pieces for pull-apart style.
  4. Generously spread the herb butter on each slice or into the cuts of the loaf if using the pull-apart method.
  5. Place the bread slices or whole loaf on the prepared baking sheet, buttered side up, spaced slightly apart.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until edges turn golden brown and butter bubbles.
  7. Optional: Broil for the last 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Remove from oven carefully and, if desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes, fresh chives, or basil. Serve warm.

Notes

Use room temperature butter for easier spreading. Avoid overloading butter to keep bread crispy. Watch oven closely from 12 minutes to prevent burning. Fresh garlic is preferred over garlic powder. Day-old bread absorbs butter better without becoming soggy. Herb butter and bread can be prepared ahead and refrigerated separately. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic bread, herb butter, crispy garlic bread, easy snack, homemade garlic bread, side dish, quick recipe