Homemade Garlic Bread with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe

If you’ve ever wished for that perfect side dish that’s crispy, buttery, and bursting with flavor, then get ready for your new favorite: the Homemade Garlic Bread with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe. This recipe brings together the beautiful crunch of toasted Italian bread paired with the warmth of melted butter infused with garlic, just the right amount of kick from red pepper flakes, and the fresh brightness of parsley. Topped with savory Parmesan that bubbles and browns under the broiler, each bite is a heavenly combination that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner upgrade yet impressive enough for guests, making it the garlic bread recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before diving into this recipe, it’s important to gather a few simple, quality ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating that irresistible garlic bread flavor and texture. Together they turn a regular loaf into something truly special.

• Italian or French bread: The sturdy crust and soft interior make it perfect for soaking up the buttery garlic mixture without falling apart.
• Garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic is the star here, providing that unmistakable aromatic punch.
• Unsalted butter: Butter delivers richness and helps mellow the garlic while creating a luscious mouthfeel.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Just a pinch adds a gentle heat that balances the richness beautifully.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of color and freshness, cutting through the richness.
• Coarse or flaked sea salt: Enhances all the flavors and adds just the right amount of crunch.
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The nutty, salty topping that creates a golden, bubbly finish.

How to Make Homemade Garlic Bread with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet

Start by heating your oven to 350°F, then line a large baking sheet with foil. This setup ensures easy cleanup and even cooking for your bread halves. Preparing your space ahead keeps everything flowing smoothly once you dive into the garlic butter making.

Step 2: Slice the Bread

Slice the loaf lengthwise, creating two long halves with a fluffy interior waiting to soak up delicious flavors. Place the halves cut-side up on your baking sheet for the perfect canvas to generously slather your garlic butter.

Step 3: Infuse the Butter With Garlic and Spice

In a small saucepan set over low heat, melt the butter with minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes. Let it come to a low boil for just a minute—the goal is to soften the raw garlic flavor and gently infuse the butter without browning the garlic, which would add bitterness. This fragrant butter becomes the heart of your bread’s irresistible flavor.

Step 4: Strain and Mix in Parsley

Pour the garlic butter through a mesh strainer to remove bits of garlic and pepper flakes, resulting in a smooth, luscious butter. Stir in one tablespoon of minced fresh parsley to add a hint of herbal brightness just before spreading it on.

Step 5: Butter and Salt the Bread

Brush the bread halves generously with all but four tablespoons of the garlic butter mixture. Then, sprinkle coarse sea salt evenly across the top to boost the flavor and add just the right amount of textural contrast with those flavorful crystals.

Step 6: Bake to Soften

Place the bread in the oven’s middle rack at 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes. This step soaks the bread with the buttery garlic goodness while warming it through, softening the crumb without losing the crisp edges.

Step 7: Add Parmesan and Broil

Remove the bread from the oven and sprinkle it evenly with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Then switch your oven setting to broil. Returning the bread to the oven under high heat creates a golden, bubbling cheese crust that’s absolutely irresistible. Watch carefully to avoid burning.

Step 8: Final Fresh Touch and Cool

After a minute or two broiling, take the bread out and sprinkle with the remaining half tablespoon of fresh parsley. This final pop of green makes the bread look as good as it tastes. Let the bread cool for a minute to let the cheese settle before slicing.

Step 9: Serve With Extra Butter for Dipping

The remaining four tablespoons of garlic butter make a perfect dipping sauce for those who want an even richer garlic experience. Serve the bread warm and enjoy its combination of crispy crust, soft buttery interior, and cheesy topping at its best.

How to Serve Homemade Garlic Bread with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe

Garnishes

While the fresh parsley sprinkled at the end adds color and brightness, feel free to add a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few thin slices of fresh chili for a touch of heat and shine. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or an herb mix of oregano and basil can also elevate the visual and flavor appeal.

Side Dishes

This Homemade Garlic Bread with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe pairs beautifully with hearty dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, creamy tomato soup, or a fresh green salad with vinaigrette. Its garlic-rich profile complements Italian and Mediterranean dishes perfectly, making mealtime feel complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress friends or family? Cut the bread into bite-sized cubes and serve in a rustic wooden bowl alongside a small ramekin of garlic butter for dipping. Alternatively, arrange sliced garlic bread on a large platter with an assortment of cheeses and cured meats for a casual, shareable appetizer spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover garlic bread, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. This will keep the bread moist while preserving the vibrant flavors for another quick snack or side.

Freezing

To enjoy the garlic bread later, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It freezes well for up to one month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or thawed garlic bread by placing it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until warm and crisp again. To keep the cheese gooey, you can add a few extra minutes under the broiler but watch closely to prevent burning.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Italian or French bread gives the best texture, you can use a sturdy sourdough or even ciabatta. Just be mindful of the crust thickness and crumb structure for optimal soaking of the garlic butter.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Swap out the unsalted butter for a vegan butter alternative and use a plant-based Parmesan-style cheese or nutritional yeast. The flavors come alive with garlic and parsley, so it’s still delicious.

How can I adjust the spiciness of the garlic bread?

If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. For more heat, increase the amount or sprinkle some chili powder on top before baking.

Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter up to one day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Gently warm it before spreading on the bread to make it easy to apply.

What’s the best way to get the Parmesan to brown nicely?

Broiling is key here. Make sure your oven rack is in the middle or just below the broiler to prevent burning while allowing the cheese to bubble and develop that beautiful golden crust.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Garlic Bread with Parmesan and Parsley Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough to make any day but special enough to serve whenever you want to dazzle. The balance of buttery garlic, fresh herbs, and melty Parmesan turns humble bread into an unforgettable treat. I hope you’ll make it soon and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite with your favorite meals or all on its own!

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