Name: The Easiest Garlic Bread
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 French or Italian loaf (about 3 inches thick); 1/2 cup salted butter, melted; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder or granulated garlic; Pinch of kosher salt (optional, if using unsalted butter)

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The easiest garlic bread is buttery, garlicky, and perfectly crisp on the outside while staying soft on the inside. I love how simple it is to make, yet it delivers that restaurant-style flavor that pairs with almost any dinner. This recipe keeps things classic—no fancy toppings, just straightforward, delicious garlic bread that I can whip up in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s foolproof and gives me exactly what I want in garlic bread: a crunchy crust, a soft center, and plenty of garlic flavor. The butter melts right into the loaf, and brushing olive oil on the outside helps the crust get golden and crisp. I also enjoy that it works with either a French or Italian loaf, making it easy to use whatever bread I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 French or Italian loaf (about 3 inches thick)
1/2 cup salted butter, melted
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder or granulated garlic
Pinch of kosher salt (optional, if using unsalted butter)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
I slice the loaf in half lengthwise and place both halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
In a small bowl, I mix melted butter, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt if needed.
I spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
I lightly brush the crust with olive oil to help it crisp up while baking.
I bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges are golden and the center is warm and soft. For extra crispiness, I broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end.
I slice and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6 people. Prep takes just 5 minutes, and baking time is around 10 to 12 minutes, so I can have garlic bread ready in under 20 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I sprinkle grated parmesan or shredded mozzarella on top before baking for a cheesy twist. I also like to add dried Italian herbs for extra flavor. If I want a softer garlic bread, I wrap the loaf in foil before baking instead of leaving it uncovered. For extra garlicky flavor, I occasionally mix in roasted garlic paste with the butter.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover garlic bread in foil or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For a quick option, I use the microwave, though the bread won’t be as crisp.

FAQs

Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?

Yes, I sometimes use minced fresh garlic, but garlic powder gives an even flavor and won’t burn as easily.

How do I keep the bread soft?

I wrap the loaf in foil before baking, which keeps the inside extra soft while still giving a lightly crisp crust.

Can I freeze garlic bread?

Yes, I freeze it after baking and let it cool completely. When ready to serve, I reheat it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What type of bread works best?

I prefer French or Italian loaves since they’re thick enough to stay soft inside while crisping on the outside.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, I prepare the garlic butter and spread it on the bread, then refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake.

Conclusion

The easiest garlic bread is everything I want in a side dish: buttery, garlicky, crisp, and soft all at once. I like how quick and simple it is to prepare, and it always complements pasta, soups, or grilled dishes perfectly. Once I make it this way, it becomes my go-to recipe for every meal that needs a little extra comfort.