There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh garlic bread wafting through your kitchen. Herbed Garlic Bread is the ultimate comfort food, blending crispy edges, a soft interior, and rich, buttery flavors with a fragrant hint of herbs. Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, soup, or salad, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, ensuring you can whip it up any time the craving strikes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have homemade garlic bread ready in under 15 minutes.
- Customizable Flavors: Adjust the herbs and garlic to suit your taste or experiment with your favorite seasonings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is perfect for family dinners, parties, or cozy nights in.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable pantry staples, it’s an inexpensive way to elevate any meal.
Ingredients for Herbed Garlic Bread
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Country Crock® Spread (or butter substitute) | ¼ cup |
| Mixed dry herbs (oregano, basil, parsley, or thyme) | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| French or Italian bread | 1 loaf (12 oz) |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures even cooking and helps your garlic bread turn out perfectly crispy on the edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Herbed Garlic Spread
- In a small bowl, combine the Country Crock® Spread, mixed dry herbs, and garlic powder.
- Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well combined, creating a flavorful and aromatic spread.
Step 3: Slice the Bread
- Take your loaf of French or Italian bread and decide how you’d like to serve it:
- Lengthwise Cut: Slice the loaf in half for large servings.
- Thick Slices: Cut the loaf into individual thick slices for a more shareable option.
Step 4: Spread the Mixture
- Generously spread the herbed garlic butter mixture over the cut surfaces of the bread. Ensure even coverage to guarantee every bite is flavorful.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the bread on a baking sheet with the cut sides facing up.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for about a minute. Slice into smaller pieces if desired and serve warm.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150-180 |
| Fat | 7-9g |
| Carbohydrates | 18-22g |
| Protein | 3-4g |
| Sodium | 200-250mg |
Tips for Perfect Herbed Garlic Bread
- Use Fresh Bread: Opt for a fresh loaf of French or Italian bread for the best texture and flavor. Day-old bread can work, but it may not crisp up as nicely.
- Experiment with Herbs: Try fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a burst of vibrant flavor. Simply chop them finely and mix them into the butter spread.
- Add a Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the bread before baking for a rich, gooey finish.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bread to ensure it doesn’t burn. Remove it from the oven as soon as the edges turn golden brown.
- Serve Immediately: Garlic bread is best enjoyed fresh and warm. If reheating, use an oven to maintain crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Herbed Garlic Bread with classic pasta dishes like spaghetti carbonara or creamy fettuccine Alfredo.
- Serve it alongside soups like tomato basil, minestrone, or butternut squash for a cozy meal.
- Add it to a charcuterie board as a flavorful accompaniment to meats and cheeses.
- Use it to soak up the rich sauces from dishes like chicken marsala or shrimp scampi.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Absolutely! Substitute the garlic powder with 1-2 cloves of minced fresh garlic for a bolder, more robust flavor.
2. How can I make this recipe vegan?
Use a vegan butter substitute and ensure your bread is free of animal products.
3. Can I freeze garlic bread?
Yes! Prepare the bread with the herbed garlic spread, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and freeze. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What other herbs can I use?
Feel free to get creative! Dill, chives, or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a unique twist to your garlic bread.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Wrap leftover garlic bread in aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crispy.
6. Can I make this bread on a grill?
Yes! Place the prepared bread on a medium-hot grill, cut side down, for about 2-3 minutes, or until lightly charred and crispy.
Why Herbed Garlic Bread is a Must-Try
Homemade Herbed Garlic Bread elevates any meal with its rich, buttery flavor and crispy texture. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for entertaining. Once you make this recipe, store-bought garlic bread just won’t compare!
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner for two, hosting a family gathering, or enjoying a quiet night in, Herbed Garlic Bread is the perfect addition to your menu. It’s quick, versatile, and irresistibly delicious. Try this recipe today and experience the magic of freshly baked garlic bread straight from your oven.