Golden Garlic Loaf is the ultimate comfort food that transforms a simple loaf of French bread into a crispy, buttery, garlic-infused delight. Perfect for sharing at family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe is as easy as it is irresistible.
French bread serves as the perfect base with its crusty exterior and soft interior. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness while adding rich, creamy texture. Garlic is the star of the show, providing a robust, aromatic flavor. Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness. Salt and black pepper enhance the overall taste, while Parmesan cheese gives a savory, umami finish that crisps up beautifully in the oven.
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your bread will bake evenly and develop that delightful golden crust. Grab a loaf of French bread and cut it in half lengthwise. This gives you two long halves, perfect for spreading with your garlic mixture.
In a medium bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, 1/4 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure the butter is soft enough to combine easily with the other ingredients. Stir until everything is well mixed and you have a smooth, fragrant paste.
Take your garlic butter mixture and spread it evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Be generous! The more evenly you spread it, the more consistent each bite will be. Next, sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top. The cheese will add a lovely crispy layer once baked.
Place your bread halves on a baking sheet, buttered side up. Pop them in the oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes. You're looking for the edges to turn golden and crispy, and the cheese to melt into a deliciously bubbly topping.
Once baked to perfection, remove from the oven, let it cool for a minute, then slice and serve while it's still warm and inviting.
This Golden Garlic Loaf pairs wonderfully with a hearty bowl of pasta, a rich and creamy soup, or a fresh green salad. It's also a fantastic addition to a charcuterie board, offering a savory, garlicky contrast to cheeses and cured meats.
Share