Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe – Easy Crispy French Baguette Toast

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe – Easy Crispy French Baguette Toast

Hey everyone! There’s just something magical about warm, crusty bread slathered in garlic butter. Seriously, is there anything more comforting? I first made this garlic parmesan bread years ago for a potluck, and it disappeared in minutes! It’s become a staple in my kitchen ever since – so easy, so flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Today, I’m sharing my go-to recipe for this unbelievably delicious garlic bread. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average garlic bread. We’re talking about a crispy, golden-brown baguette (or ciabatta!) bursting with garlicky, buttery goodness, and a hint of parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. It’s quick to make – ready in under 15 minutes – and requires minimal ingredients. Plus, it’s perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a satisfying snack. Honestly, you’ll find yourself craving this one!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a loaf of this amazing garlic bread:

• 1 French baguette or Ciabatta loaf
• 1 cup (226g) salted butter, softened
• 7 garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1/4 cup (5g) fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) freshly ground black pepper
• 1/4 cup (30g) parmesan cheese (optional)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec, because a few little things can make a big difference!

• Bread: A good quality French baguette or ciabatta is key. You want something with a nice, crusty exterior and a soft interior. Don’t be afraid to ask your baker for a fresh loaf!
• Butter: I prefer using salted butter for this recipe – it adds a lovely flavor and you don’t have to worry about adding extra salt. If you only have unsalted butter, just add a pinch of salt to the garlic butter mixture. About ¼ teaspoon should do it.
• Garlic: Oh, the glorious garlic! I love using fresh garlic, but feel free to adjust the amount to your liking. Different regions in India have different garlic varieties – some are milder, some are more pungent. Experiment and find what you love!
• Parmesan: The parmesan is totally optional, but it adds a lovely salty, umami flavor. If you’re not a fan, feel free to leave it out. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan substitute!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper – this prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, black pepper, and parmesan cheese (if using). Mix everything together until it’s beautifully smooth and creamy.
3. Now for the fun part! Slice the bread loaf horizontally, like you’re making a sandwich. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture on both halves of the bread. Don’t be shy!
4. Place the buttered bread on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy around the edges. Keep a close eye on it – ovens can vary!
5. Stovetop Option: If you’re short on time, you can also make this on the stovetop! Heat a skillet over medium heat. Toast the buttered bread face-down for 3-4 minutes, until it’s beautifully crisp.
6. Slice into portions and serve immediately while warm. Seriously, the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water!

Expert Tips

Want to take your garlic bread to the next level? Here are a few of my favorite tips:

• Crispiness is Key: For extra crispy bread, broil it for the last minute or two, but watch it very carefully to prevent burning.
• Even Garlic Distribution: Make sure the garlic is minced really finely. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaked garlic bread can become dry and hard. Keep a close eye on it and remove it from the oven as soon as it’s golden brown.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ways to customize it:

• Vegan Garlic Bread: Swap the butter for vegan butter and omit the parmesan cheese (or use nutritional yeast!). My friend Priya swears by adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free Garlic Bread: Use a gluten-free baguette or ciabatta loaf.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a little kick. My family loves this!
• Festival Adaptations: This makes a fantastic appetizer for Christmas or New Year’s Eve. You can even cut the bread into festive shapes!

Serving Suggestions

Garlic bread goes with everything! Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

• Pasta dishes (of course!)
• Soups and salads
• Grilled meats or vegetables
• As a snack with a side of marinara sauce

Storage Instructions

While garlic bread is best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

1. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can definitely prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just let it soften slightly before spreading it on the bread.

2. What type of bread works best for this recipe?

A French baguette or ciabatta loaf are my go-to choices, but you can also use Italian bread or sourdough.

3. Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic is best, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every 3 cloves of fresh garlic.

4. How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Make sure the butter isn’t too melted when you spread it on the bread. And don’t cover the bread while it’s cooling.

5. Can this be made in an air fryer?

Yes! Air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

6. What’s the best way to store leftover garlic bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Enjoy! I hope you love this recipe as much as I do. Let me know in the comments how it turns out for you!