Transform ordinary French bread into an irresistible treat with this Parmesan Garlic Bread!
Rich in protein from Parmesan and fiber from crusty bread, it delivers both nutrition and flavor.
With wholesome fats from butter and simple, fresh ingredients, it’s a quick, satisfying option for breakfast, snacks, or a side dish. Perfect for everyday meals or easy meal prep.
25-Minute Parmesan Garlic Bread
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 small mixing bowl
- 1 pastry brush or spoon
- 1 Bread Knife
Ingredients
- 1 loaf crusty French bread
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 5 cloves garlic finely minced or pureed
- 5 tablespoons Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). A properly heated oven ensures the bread bakes evenly, creating a golden, crisp crust while keeping the inside soft and fluffy. While the oven warms, gather all your ingredients so everything is ready to go, which makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
- Prepare the Bread: Place your crusty French bread on a clean cutting board. Using a sharp bread knife, slice the loaf horizontally into two even halves. Clean, straight cuts help the bread hold the garlic-butter mixture without spilling. If the bread is very thick, gently hollow the center slightly to allow the flavors to seep in more deeply. Set the halves aside.
- Mix the Garlic Butter: In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, finely minced or pureed garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley. Stir well until all ingredients are fully blended and smooth. The butter carries the flavors, the Parmesan adds a savory richness, and the parsley gives a fresh touch. Taste and adjust the garlic for a bolder or milder flavor.
- Spread the Mixture: Generously spread the garlic-Parmesan mixture onto the cut sides of the bread using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon. Make sure every corner and edge is covered for maximum flavor. Press lightly to help the mixture stick, ensuring it does not slide off during baking.
- Bake the Bread: Place the coated bread halves on a baking sheet with the cut sides facing up. Bake for 15 minutes, allowing the butter to soak in and the Parmesan to melt and turn golden. Keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes to avoid over-browning, as ovens can vary.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the bread from the oven and let it rest for 3–5 minutes. This allows the melted cheese to set slightly and makes slicing easier. The aroma of toasted garlic and Parmesan will fill your kitchen, signaling the delicious bread is ready to enjoy.
- Slice and Serve: Use a sharp bread knife to cut the bread into uniform slices. Serve warm to enjoy the perfect combination of a crisp crust, soft interior, and rich garlic-Parmesan flavor. This bread is ideal alongside pasta, soups, salads, or simply as a satisfying snack on its own.
Notes
- Use crusty French bread for best texture; soft or sandwich bread won’t yield the same crispiness.
- Melt the butter slowly to avoid burning the garlic when mixing.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor better than pre-grated or powdered cheese.
- Adjust garlic amount based on preference; start with fewer cloves if you prefer a milder flavor.
- For extra crispiness, broil the bread for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Parsley is optional but adds freshness and a pop of color.
- Serve immediately for best taste; reheated bread loses some crispiness.
Chef’s Secrets For Perfect Bread
To achieve the ideal balance of crisp crust and soft interior, always preheat the oven fully before baking.
Using a sharp bread knife ensures clean slices that hold the butter and cheese mixture evenly.
the garlic-butter mixture thoroughly so every bite delivers a consistent flavor.
For an extra indulgent version, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top before baking.
Small details, like letting the bread rest briefly after baking, allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set perfectly.
Serving Suggestions For Any Occasion
Parmesan Garlic Bread is versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of meals.
Serve it alongside pasta dishes, creamy soups, or fresh salads for a complete meal.
It also works well as an appetizer with marinara or pesto dipping sauces.
For a casual snack, cut into bite-sized pieces for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
This bread is equally satisfying on its own, offering a comforting, savory treat for breakfast or tea time.
Storage Tips To Keep Fresh
Store leftover Parmesan Garlic Bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, freeze the bread in a resealable bag for up to 1 month.
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes to restore crispness.
Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Proper storage preserves flavor and texture, so you can enjoy it later without compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of bread?
Yes, but crusty French or Italian-style bread works best. Softer bread may become soggy and won’t hold the garlic-butter mixture as well.
2. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic-butter mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for 1–2 days. Assemble and bake the bread right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
3. Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
While Parmesan adds a nutty, savory flavor, you can experiment with Pecorino Romano or Asiago if desired. Avoid pre-shredded blends with anti-caking agents for best melting and flavor.
4. Can I make it less buttery?
Yes, you can reduce the butter slightly or substitute with olive oil for a lighter version. Keep in mind that less butter may affect crispiness and richness.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes until warm and slightly crisp. Avoid microwaving, which can make the bread soft or chewy.
