Are you looking for the perfect side dish to elevate your next meal? Look no further! This garlic bread recipe, made with crusty baguette, is incredibly easy to make, yet bursting with flavor. It's the kind of homemade cooking that everyone loves, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food – warm, garlicky, buttery goodness! This recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are quick to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your garlic bread gets perfectly golden and crispy.
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Prepare the garlic butter: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated. This simple step is key to the amazing flavor of your garlic bread.
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Spread the garlic butter: Generously spread the garlic butter mixture onto each slice of baguette. Make sure to cover both sides for maximum flavor.
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Arrange and bake: Arrange the baguette slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the garlic bread is golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
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Serve immediately: Enjoy your warm, fragrant garlic bread while it's still hot and crispy. It's a perfect accompaniment to soups, stews, pasta dishes, or even enjoyed on its own!
Tips for the Best Garlic Bread:
- Use a good quality baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette will make a significant difference in the final taste and texture of your garlic bread.
- Don't overbake: Keep a close eye on your garlic bread while it's baking to prevent it from burning. Start checking for doneness around the 8-minute mark.
- Get creative with herbs: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a unique twist.
- Add some cheese: For extra indulgence, sprinkle some mozzarella or provolone cheese over the garlic butter before baking.
Variations:
- Spicy Garlic Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb Garlic Bread: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives.
- Garlic Bread with Roasted Garlic: Roast a whole head of garlic before mincing it for an even more intense garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your baguette and the amount of butter used. However, a general estimate per serving (assuming 4 servings) would be:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
- Protein: 3-5g
This easy garlic bread recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal. It's a quick dinner idea that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish. Enjoy!