There are few things in life as comforting as the aroma of freshly baked bread mingling with warm, garlicky butter—it’s just pure happiness in every bite! This Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread will instantly upgrade any meal, turning an ordinary loaf into a crave-worthy treat. With a dreamy mixture of butter, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and a touch of Parmesan, you’ll want to slather it on everything. Plus, it’s outrageously simple: just mix, spread, and bake for golden, toasty perfection every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, everyday ingredients come together to create irresistible flavors and that classic garlic bread crunch. Each one plays a vital part in the taste, texture, or color of this Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread, making every bite unforgettable.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): The base for our spread—rich, creamy, and perfect for soaking into each slice.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a beautiful depth and a hint of fruitiness to balance the buttery goodness.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): The star of the show! Fresh garlic brings punchy flavor and aromatic appeal.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Provides a pop of color and fresh, herby notes that lighten every bite.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Just enough to enhance all the other flavors and bring the spread to life.
- Freshly ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle warmth and dimension without overpowering the garlic.
- Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, grated, optional): Lends a salty, savory kick and creates delicious golden bits on top when baked.
- Italian or French bread (1 loaf): The trusty vehicle! Choose a sturdy loaf with a crunchy crust and soft interior for best results.
How to Make Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread
Step 1: Mix the Garlic Butter Spread
Start by grabbing a medium bowl and combining the softened butter, olive oil, freshly minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and Parmesan (if you’re feeling cheesy). Use a fork or spatula to mash and mix everything until it’s creamy, lush, and flecked with green and gold. The smell alone will have you swooning!
Step 2: Prep the Bread
With your spread ready to go, take your loaf of Italian or French bread and slice it lengthwise, giving you two large halves with plenty of surface area for the beloved Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread. Lay them cut-side up on a baking sheet for easy access.
Step 3: Slather Generously
Spoon the garlic butter mixture onto both halves of the bread, and don’t be shy—use the back of your spoon or a spatula to get every nook and cranny covered. The more even and generous your layer, the more flavor packed each bite will be.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Slide the baking sheet into a preheated oven at 375°F. Bake for 10-12 minutes until the bread is golden, the edges are crisp, and you see a little sizzle on top. Fancy things extra crunchy? Pop it under the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes and watch it carefully—the magic happens fast!
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Let the loaves cool just long enough to handle, then slice into thick, happy pieces. Serve your Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread while it’s still warm, and watch it disappear as everyone dives in!
How to Serve Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread
Garnishes
Amp up the flavor and eye appeal by sprinkling a touch of extra chopped parsley or a light dusting of Parmesan over the bread right before serving. If you love heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully here too!
Side Dishes
This garlic bread is a match made in heaven alongside hearty pastas, cozy soups, crisp salads, or even as a starter for pizza night. Its buttery crunch and garlicky punch make it the ideal sidekick for just about any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Level up your appetizer game by slicing the bread into thin strips for dipping, cutting it into fun shapes with cookie cutters, or even adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze before serving. Stack slices on a rustic wooden board for a stunning, shareable centerpiece that always draws a crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have any of your Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread left, let it cool completely and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. Pro tip: leftover slices make an amazing snack the next day!
Freezing
Planning ahead? You can easily freeze the unbaked, spread-covered bread! Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then pop it into a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—simply add a few extra minutes to the bake time straight from the freezer.
Reheating
To bring your garlic bread back to its crispy, buttery self, reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. Avoid the microwave, as it can make the bread chewy instead of toasty. If you want that unbeatable crunch, finish with a quick minute under the broiler.
FAQs
Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Fresh parsley offers a burst of color and bright flavor, but in a pinch, dried parsley works fine. Just use about half the amount, since dried herbs are more concentrated.
Do I have to add Parmesan cheese?
Not at all! Parmesan is totally optional in this Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread. It adds a savory touch, but if you’re dairy-free or just not a fan, you can leave it out or swap for your favorite alternative.
What kind of bread should I use?
A good Italian or French loaf with a crisp outside and soft interior gives you classic results. However, you can also try sourdough, ciabatta, or even baguette slices! The key is to pick a bread that can hold up to all the buttery goodness.
Can I make the garlic spread in advance?
Definitely! You can mix up the garlic spread several days ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready to use, let it soften at room temperature for easy spreading, then proceed with the recipe.
How do I avoid burning the garlic?
To prevent any chance of burnt garlic, make sure it’s well combined in the spread, so it’s cushioned by the butter and oil. Keep a close eye on your bread, especially if you broil at the end—just 30 seconds can make a difference.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread is a game-changer for weeknight dinners, special occasions, and everything in between. It’s cozy, quick, endlessly customizable, and destined to become the most-requested side at your table. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how quickly it disappears!
Print
Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy homemade garlic bread spread is a flavorful addition to any meal. With a perfect blend of garlic, butter, and Parmesan, this spread takes regular bread to a whole new level of deliciousness.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter Spread:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Additional:
- 1 loaf Italian or French bread
Instructions
- Making Garlic Butter Spread: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix until fully combined and creamy.
- Preparing Bread: Cut the bread loaf lengthwise and spread the garlic butter generously onto both halves.
- Baking: Place bread on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until golden and toasted.
- Serving: Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- For extra crispy garlic bread, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking.
- You can store leftover garlic spread in the fridge for up to one week.
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