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
Scale
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
