If you’ve ever craved a tasty, comforting snack that’s quick to whip up, this Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Using everyday sliced bread combined with a luscious garlic butter spread, it transforms simple ingredients into a golden, fragrant treat. Whether you use white, whole wheat, or sourdough, this recipe guarantees crispy edges, a soft buttery center, and that irresistible aroma of fresh garlic and parsley that fills your kitchen with warmth the moment it’s baking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe means gathering a handful of basic but flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: butter for richness, garlic for that signature punch, parsley for freshness, and a touch of salt to balance it all. And if you like your garlic bread cheesy, Parmesan adds a perfect finishing touch that melts beautifully and bakes to a golden crust.
- 8 slices sliced bread: Choose your favorite variety like white, whole wheat, or sourdough; each brings its own texture and flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Soft butter ensures easy mixing and a creamy garlic spread.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic gives the bread its bold, aromatic flavor—don’t skimp here!
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped): Adds a bright, herbaceous note and a pop of green color.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness and garlic’s sharpness.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For a cheesy crust that enhances the savory experience, sprinkle this on top before baking.
How to Make Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures your garlic bread will come out perfectly crispy on the outside and soft inside, with just the right golden color.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, freshly minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Mix these ingredients well until you get a smooth, spreadable butter packed with flavor and easy to apply on your bread slices.
Step 3: Spread the Garlic Butter Generously
Take each slice of bread and spread a generous amount of the garlic butter mixture all over the surface. Be sure to cover every corner for that full garlic experience in every bite.
Step 4: Add the Cheese (Optional)
If you’re a fan of cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle a layer of grated Parmesan on top of each buttered slice. It will bake into a delicious golden crust that adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden Brown
Arrange the prepared bread slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them—the garlic bread is done when the edges turn wonderfully golden and the cheese, if added, bubbles and browns slightly.
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Enjoy
Once baked, let the garlic bread cool for a minute or two before serving. This short rest lets the flavors settle and ensures you won’t burn your mouth, making it the perfect time to appreciate the enticing aroma wafting from your creation.
How to Serve Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up your Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe even more, sprinkle a little extra chopped fresh parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. These final touches not only enhance the appearance but add fresh and contrasting flavors that complement the buttery garlic sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This garlic bread pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and hearty pasta dishes. Serving it alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or your favorite spaghetti marinara turns your meal into an inviting, cozy feast perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, stack the garlic bread slices in a rustic basket lined with a colorful napkin. Or, cut the slices into smaller finger food-sized pieces and serve as an appetizer with dips like marinara, pesto, or even a tangy yogurt herb sauce for a delightful contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep in mind that the bread will be best enjoyed within that time frame to preserve its crispiness and fresh garlic flavor.
Freezing
To enjoy garlic bread later, wrap the unbaked slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can freeze them for up to a month. When ready, bake from frozen for an easy, quick snack or side dish anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftover garlic bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore its crisp edges and warm the garlic butter. Avoid microwaving, as it tends to make the bread soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread besides sliced bread?
Absolutely! While the Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe is designed for sliced bread, you can use baguette slices or a ciabatta loaf if you prefer a crustier texture and different shape. Just adjust baking times accordingly.
Is Parmesan cheese necessary in this recipe?
Parmesan is optional and adds a lovely nutty, savory flavor with a crisp finish, but the garlic bread is delicious on its own without cheese. Feel free to skip it or swap with mozzarella for a gooey twist.
Can I prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the garlic butter mixture a day or two in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just bring it back to room temperature before spreading it on the bread for best results.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use vegan cheese alternatives. The garlic and parsley flavors will still shine beautifully.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can work in a pinch, but fresh parsley really brightens the flavor and adds a lovely color contrast. You could also try fresh basil or chives for a slightly different but delicious herbal note.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about this Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe that makes it a go-to for any occasion. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying with every bite. Whether as a side, appetizer, or snack, I encourage you to try it soon and enjoy the little moments of joy that come with homemade garlic bread done just right.
Print
Garlic Bread with Sliced Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (2 slices per serving)
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This classic Garlic Bread recipe uses simple sliced bread combined with a flavorful garlic butter spread and optional Parmesan cheese for a golden, crispy finish. Perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or salads, this easy-to-make garlic bread delivers rich, aromatic flavors in just about 20 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
Garlic Butter Spread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/4 tsp salt
Bread
- 8 slices sliced bread (white, whole wheat, or sourdough)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the garlic bread to a perfect golden brown.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well blended, ensuring an even flavor distribution.
- Spread Mixture on Bread: Generously spread the prepared garlic butter mixture over each slice of bread, making sure to cover the surface evenly for optimal taste.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top of each buttered bread slice for an extra layer of cheesy flavor and a slightly crispy texture.
- Bake the Bread: Arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bread is toasted to a golden brown and the edges are crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the garlic bread cool slightly before serving warm, allowing the flavors to settle and avoiding burns while eating.
Notes
- You can use any type of sliced bread including white, whole wheat, or sourdough depending on your preference.
- For a stronger garlic flavor, increase the amount of minced garlic slightly.
- The Parmesan cheese topping is optional but highly recommended for added richness and texture.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture as the bread tends to become soggy if stored for long.
- To reheat, place in a toaster oven or regular oven for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
