If you’re searching for a foolproof, crowd-pleasing way to create crave-worthy garlic bread at home, look no further than Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread. This irresistible blend of creamy butter, freshly minced garlic, fragrant herbs, and a touch of Parmesan transforms any humble loaf into a golden, aromatic masterpiece. Whether you’re planning an Italian feast or just want to jazz up your weeknight dinner, you’ll love how quick, simple, and utterly delicious this spread is!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread brings something special to the party—whether it’s the richness of butter, the punch of fresh garlic, or the herby lift from parsley and basil. Here’s how each simple staple works its magic in this recipe.
- Unsalted Butter (1 cup, softened): The creamy foundation that makes your spread luxuriously smooth and easy to slather.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic packs a punch of flavor, infusing every bite with irresistible aroma.
- Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, finely chopped): Brightens the spread with color and a hint of freshness.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a classic, earthy Italian note that pairs perfectly with garlic and butter.
- Dried Basil (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle sweetness and depth to the herb blend.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Pulls all flavors together and balances the richness of the butter.
- Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a gentle heat and complexity without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup, optional): For a savory, nutty kick and a hint of irresistible crustiness when baked.
- Olive Oil (1 teaspoon): Gives the spread a silky finish and helps it brown beautifully in the oven.
How to Make Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread
Step 1: Prepare the Spread
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl and add your softened butter. Toss in the minced garlic, fresh parsley, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, Parmesan (if using), and that drizzle of olive oil. Using a fork or spatula, mash and mix everything together until the mixture is creamy, uniform, and flecked with herbs. This is where the magic of Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread really comes together—the aroma will have you swooning before it even hits the oven!
Step 2: Prep the Bread
Slice your favorite loaf of French or Italian bread in half lengthwise so you have two long pieces with plenty of open surface for the spread. Lay the pieces cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment for easy cleanup. Don’t worry about perfect slices; rustic is charming here!
Step 3: Slather and Spread
Using a butterknife or small offset spatula, generously spread your homemade garlic mixture over both halves of the bread. Be sure to reach every nook and cranny so each piece will be loaded with flavor when baked. The more even your layer, the better the golden finish later on.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the bread into a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the edges are golden and your kitchen smells absolutely heavenly. For those who love an extra-crispy top, switch on the broiler for the last 1 to 2 minutes—just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Remove the bread from the oven, let it cool for a minute or two, then slice into thick, satisfying pieces. Serve warm and watch as it disappears faster than you can say “Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread!”
How to Serve Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread
Garnishes
For a finishing touch, sprinkle your bread with a bit of extra chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of Parmesan right after baking. A pinch of flaky sea salt or a hint of red pepper flakes can also elevate each bite and add a pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
This garlic bread is a match made in heaven with pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, creamy Alfredo, or zesty marinara. It also shines alongside hearty soups, crisp salads, or as a cozy side for roasted chicken or grilled veggies. Basically, it’s the ultimate companion to almost any meal!
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting your bread into fun sticks for dipping into soups or sauces, or make mini garlic toasts for party appetizers. For a truly wow-worthy platter, stack slices artfully in a bread basket lined with a pretty napkin and serve with a small bowl of marinara or herbed olive oil for dunking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any slices left, wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. The Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 5 days, making it perfect for impromptu snacks or quick side dishes all week long.
Freezing
To freeze, you can either store the prepared spread by itself or spread it onto the bread and freeze the assembled loaves. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as usual for fresh, garlicky goodness anytime.
Reheating
To revive leftover garlic bread, pop slices in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 minutes until hot and crisp. For single servings, a quick toast in a skillet or toaster oven works wonders, too—just avoid the microwave, which can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Absolutely! If you’re using salted butter, just reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning. Taste as you mix to get the balance just right.
What kind of bread works best with Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread?
Classic French or Italian loaves are perfect because of their airy texture and crisp crust, but you can experiment with ciabatta, sourdough, or even soft rolls—just adjust baking time as needed.
Can I make Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread in advance?
Yes, you can! The spread can be mixed up to 5 days ahead and stored in the fridge. It’s a lifesaver when you want to prep dinner ahead or have it ready for a last-minute gathering.
Is there a way to make this spread dairy-free?
Definitely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and omit the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese. The result will still be savory, garlicky, and delicious.
How can I make my garlic bread spicier?
For those who love a little kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the spread, or sprinkle them on top before baking. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for the store-bought kind. It’s so easy, so flavorful, and absolutely guaranteed to be a hit at any table. Give it a try, share with friends and family, and get ready for rave reviews!
Print
Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Condiment
- Method: Mixing, Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread is a flavorful blend of butter, garlic, and herbs that creates the perfect topping for your favorite fresh bread. Simple to prepare and versatile, it delivers a deliciously aromatic garlic experience with a hint of Parmesan cheese, ideal for any Italian-American meal or as a savory side dish.
Ingredients
Garlic Bread Spread
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 large loaf French bread or Italian bread
Instructions
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, Parmesan cheese (if using), and olive oil. Use a fork or spatula to mash and thoroughly blend the ingredients into a smooth and creamy spread.
- Slice the Bread: Take a large loaf of French or Italian bread and slice it lengthwise into two halves, creating a flat surface ideal for spreading the garlic mixture evenly.
- Apply the Spread: Evenly spread the prepared garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves, ensuring full coverage to infuse flavor throughout.
- Bake the Bread: Place the bread halves on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the bread turns golden and the spread is fragrant.
- Optional Broil for Crispiness: For a crispier and slightly browned top, broil the bread for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Be sure to watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, slice into serving pieces, and serve warm to enjoy the rich garlic flavor at its best.
Notes
- This garlic bread spread can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- For added heat, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the spread.
- Using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate the brightness and freshness of the spread.
- Adjust the amount of garlic according to your taste preference for a milder or stronger flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 170 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
