Classic Garlic Bread Spread

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 12 min
🍽 Serves: 8
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This Classic Garlic Bread Spread is your go-to for making any meal feel extra special. It's quick to whip up and perfect for garlic lovers. Whether you're pairing it with pasta or serving it as an appetizer, it always hits the spot.

Ingredients for Classic Garlic Bread Spread

Butter is the base of this spread, giving it a creamy texture and rich flavor. Garlic adds that signature aroma and a bit of a punch. Fresh parsley brings a pop of color and freshness, while dried oregano provides a subtle, earthy depth. Salt enhances all the flavors, and a pinch of black pepper gives a slight kick. Finally, Parmesan cheese melts beautifully on top, adding a savory, umami finish. The French bread serves as the perfect vehicle, crisping up nicely in the oven.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use room temperature butter for easier mixing.
  • If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add an extra clove.
  • For a hint of spice, sprinkle a bit of red pepper flakes on top before baking.
  • Make sure to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This garlic bread pairs beautifully with a hearty pasta dish such as spaghetti bolognese or lasagna. It's also a fantastic side for soups, especially tomato or minestrone. For a fun appetizer, serve it with a marinara sauce for dipping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to avoid it being too salty.
How can I make it vegan?
Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and the Parmesan with nutritional yeast or a vegan cheese option.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes, you can mix the butter spread ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading on the bread.

Classic Garlic Bread Spread Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step ensures that once your bread is prepared, it can go straight into the oven without any wait time. While the oven is warming up, grab a medium bowl and add your softened butter. If it's not soft yet, give it a quick zap in the microwave for about 10 seconds. Then, add in your minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until it's well blended and looks like a herby butter dream.

Next, take your loaf of French bread and cut it lengthwise. Lay the halves open, with the cut sides facing up. Now, take that wonderful butter mixture and spread it generously over the bread. Make sure every inch is covered so that each bite is packed with flavor.

Once the butter is spread, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. The cheese will melt and form a delicious crust as it bakes. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet, buttered side up, and slide it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes. You'll know it's done when the edges are golden brown and crispy.

Once out of the oven, let it cool for just a minute or two before slicing it into pieces. Serve it warm, and watch it disappear quickly!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to make.
  • Perfect balance of garlic and herbs.
  • Crispy edges with a soft, buttery center.
  • Great for gatherings or a family dinner side.

Ingredients

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 loaf French bread, halved lengthwise

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper, mixing until well blended.
3. Spread the butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the French bread.
4. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the spread.
5. Place bread halves on a baking sheet, buttered side up.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oven, slice, and serve warm.

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