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Supreme Garlic Bread with a Perfect Crunch and Rich Garlic Flavor

Few side dishes inspire as much joy and devotion as garlic bread — a glorious fusion of crispy golden crust, soft pillowy center, and that unmistakable rich garlic aroma. But forget the soggy or bland store-bought versions. This is Supreme Garlic Bread — an elevated take that packs intense flavor, perfect crunch, and just the right touch of heat. What makes this recipe “supreme”? Fresh garlic, melted butter, herbs, two cheeses (yes, really), and just the right seasoning to make every bite addictive. Whether you're pairing it with pasta, soup, or serving it as a standalone appetizer, this garlic bread demands attention and delivers satisfaction.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

🥬 Fruits et légumes
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced or pressed (about 2 tbsp)
  • 2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley finely chopped
🧂 Aides culinaires et épices
  • Fine salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
🥖 Pains et viennoiseries
  • 1 loaf French bread or ciabatta about 12–16 inches long
🧈 Produits laitiers
  • 8 tbsp 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Optional upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella for gooey cheesy garlic bread.

Equipment

  • To make this buttery masterpiece, you’ll need:
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Garlic press or microplane
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Spoon or silicone spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or foil
  • Oven or broiler

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Garlic Butter
  1. In a small bowl, combine:
  2. Softened butter
  3. Garlic
  4. Parsley
  5. Pinch of salt, a few cracks of black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using
  6. Stir vigorously until creamy and well mixed.
  7. Pro Tip: Let the butter sit for 10 minutes — it helps infuse the garlic into the fat for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the loaf in half lengthwise (like a sandwich), exposing the interior.
  3. Place halves cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Slather It Up
  1. Spread the garlic butter mixture generously across each half.
  2. Sprinkle evenly with Parmesan cheese (and mozzarella if using).
  3. Don't skimp here — the butter and cheese caramelize into crispy, golden perfection.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
  1. Bake for 12–15 minutes, until the edges are crisp and the cheese is bubbling.
  2. Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for an extra golden, crispy top.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
  1. Remove from oven and let cool for 1–2 minutes.
  2. Slice into thick pieces (about 1½–2 inches wide).
  3. Sprinkle with extra chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Wrap cooled garlic bread in foil and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Wrap in foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
For crispy edges, open foil in last few minutes.
You can also reheat slices in a toaster oven.
Freezing:
Wrap buttered (uncooked) bread tightly in foil, freeze up to 2 months.
Bake directly from frozen at 375°F for 15–18 minutes.
🥄 Variations
Cheesy Pull-Apart Garlic Bread: Use a soft loaf, cut into squares (not all the way through), stuff with butter and cheese, then bake.
Herb Explosion: Add dried oregano, thyme, or basil to the butter mixture for a herby upgrade.
Spicy Version: Add 1 finely chopped red chili or increase red pepper flakes.
Roasted Garlic: Roast garlic cloves until golden and mash into the butter for a mellow, nutty version.
Vegan Garlic Bread: Use plant-based butter and skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar?
You can, but fresh garlic gives the strongest flavor. Jarred garlic is milder.
What’s the best bread for garlic bread?
French bread for a crispy crust and soft center, or ciabatta for more chew. Sourdough adds tang.
Can I use salted butter?
Yes. Just reduce or skip the added salt in the recipe.
How can I make it cheesier?
Add shredded mozzarella or provolone on top for melt-in-your-mouth cheesy garlic bread.
What herbs go well with garlic bread?
Parsley, basil, oregano, and thyme all complement garlic beautifully.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes. Prepare and refrigerate the buttered loaf, covered in foil, up to 24 hours ahead. Bake when ready.
What can I serve this with?
Pasta, lasagna, soups (like tomato or minestrone), or alongside a charcuterie board.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use your favorite gluten-free baguette or ciabatta.
How do I get it super crispy?
Broil for 1–2 minutes after baking. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes. Assemble, freeze before baking, and cook from frozen for quick garlic bread anytime.
🏁 Conclusion
Garlic bread should never be an afterthought — and this Supreme Garlic Bread proves why. With buttery richness, bold garlic, a whisper of spice, and that craveable crunch, every bite is unapologetically satisfying.
Whether you’re hosting pasta night, needing a crowd-pleaser, or just want a reason to turn your oven on, this recipe belongs in your weekly lineup. Once you taste the difference of homemade garlic bread done right, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.