Can I use unsalted butter for this recipe?

Absolutely! If using unsalted butter, just increase the added salt to about 3/4 teaspoon total. Salted butter provides a convenient flavor baseline, but controlling your own salt level works perfectly too. I find the salt really helps enhance the garlic flavor, so don't skip it entirely.

My bread is browning too quickly under the broiler. What should I do?

This is a common issue with broilers since they can vary dramatically in heat output. Simply move your oven rack down another level or two from the heating element. You can also flip to the baking method instead – 450°F for 8-10 minutes gives you more control and more even browning.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic provides the most vibrant flavor, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1 tablespoon of garlic powder as a substitute for the 4 teaspoons of minced garlic. The flavor will be different – more mellow and less bright – but still delicious.

My family doesn't like herbs. Can I make this without the basil and oregano?

Definitely! The classic garlic bread base of butter, garlic, and a touch of salt is still incredibly delicious on its own. You might want to add a bit more Parmesan to compensate for the flavor complexity the herbs would have provided. Some people also enjoy a touch of paprika for color and subtle flavor.

The Ultimate Garlic Bread Recipe

Name: The Ultimate Garlic Bread Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: Bread:; 1 loaf French bread; Butter Mixture:; 1/2 cup salted butter, softened; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 4 teaspoons minced garlic; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Description

This ultimate garlic bread recipe is a perfect combination of buttery richness, aromatic garlic, and cheesy goodness, all brought together on a crisp and golden loaf of French bread. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or a delicious snack, this quick and easy recipe will leave everyone craving more!

Ingredients

Units Scale

Bread:
1 loaf French bread
Butter Mixture:
1/2 cup salted butter, softened
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
4 teaspoons minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the Broiler:
Preheat your oven broiler. Adjust the oven rack so it is 6–8 inches below the broiler element to ensure even cooking and browning.
Slice the Bread:
Slice the French bread in half lengthwise and place both halves cut side up on a baking sheet. This ensures the surface is ready to absorb the delicious garlic butter mixture.
Mix the Butter Spread:
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, dried basil, oregano, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
Spread the Mixture:
Generously spread the butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread, ensuring an even layer for optimal flavor in every bite.
Broil the Bread:
Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil the bread until the edges are golden brown and the surface is bubbly, approximately 2–5 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Slice and Serve:
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice into pieces and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

Bread Options: You can use different types of bread such as Italian bread, ciabatta, sourdough, sub rolls, or even sliced sandwich bread. Each will give a unique texture and flavor variation.
Broiling Tips: Broilers can vary in intensity. Rotate the baking sheet if needed for even browning, and keep a close watch since the bread can brown quickly.
Baking Option: If you don’t have a broiler, bake the bread at 450°F for 8-10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Soft Garlic Bread: Wrap the bread in foil and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes for a softer texture that still packs all the flavor.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 190
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 290mg
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg