Garlic Bread Crusty Herbs

Garlic bread first stole my heart on a chilly evening when the aroma of roasting garlic filled the kitchen and made everything feel warm and inviting.

I still remember the first time unexpected guests arrived right when I was pulling this bread out of the oven and how everyone raved about its irresistible golden crust and fresh herb scent.

Ingredients

• Bread: I always reach for a large baguette or Italian loaf because its crust crisps beautifully while the inside stays soft and fluffy
• Garlic Butter: Using unsalted softened butter lets me control the saltiness while fresh minced garlic and herbs bring that fresh punch people crave
• Topping (optional): A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or mozzarella adds a gooey, cheesy finish when I want to indulge a little

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the bread won't stick or burn

Slice with Care:

Cut the baguette in half horizontally, then slice each half into 4 pieces so you end up with 8 perfect slices that will hold that garlic butter just right

Make the Garlic Butter:

Combine softened butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, chives if you're using them, sea salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix until smooth and every bite promises flavor

Spread the Love:

Generously slather the garlic butter over the cut sides of each bread slice so every nook and cranny soaks up the goodness

Arrange and Top:

Place bread slices on the baking sheet buttered side up and, if you like, sprinkle with your chosen cheese for a golden melty finish

Bake to Perfection:

Pop them in the oven for 12 to 15 minutes until golden and bubbling. For extra crispiness, broil for 1 to 2 minutes watching like a hawk

Serve Warm:

Bring them to the table hot and fresh, maybe with a sprinkle of extra parsley for that final touch

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This dish became more than just a side one winter when it comforted us after a day of snow shoveling — a simple joy that brought the family around the table smiling and warm.

Keeping It Fresh

Leftover garlic bread reheats beautifully in a warm oven or toaster oven, restoring crispness so it never feels like a day-old afterthought.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

I've found that pairing garlic bread with soups like tomato basil or hearty pasta dishes turns a simple meal into a satisfying occasion.

A Time This Recipe Saved the Day

When I forgot to prepare a main dish for guests once, a big batch of this garlic bread alongside a salad became the unexpected star that evening

• Always keep extra garlic cloves handy for a last-minute garlic butter top-up
• Oh wait one more thing: don't skimp on the garlic quantity—it makes all the difference
• Remember to watch the bread closely near the end to prevent burning

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Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me—hope this garlic bread fills your home with warmth and smiles too.

Recipes Q&A

→ How do I achieve a crispy crust?

Bake the bread slices at 200°C and broil for an additional 1–2 minutes to ensure a golden, crisp exterior.

→ Can I use different herbs?

Yes, parsley and chives offer fresh flavors, but you can also experiment with rosemary or thyme for variation.

→ What type of bread works best?

A large baguette or Italian loaf provides the ideal structure and crust for absorbing the garlic butter.

→ Is grated cheese necessary?

Cheese is optional; it adds richness but the garlic butter alone delivers plenty of flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

Swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative and skip cheese or use vegan cheeses.