Are you looking for an easy and delicious side dish that elevates any meal? Look no further! This garlic bread recipe with mayonnaise is incredibly simple to make, yet bursting with flavor. Forget those bland, store-bought versions; this homemade recipe uses a creamy mayonnaise base for an extra layer of richness and flavor that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a truly delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures your garlic bread is perfectly baked and golden brown.
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Prepare the garlic mayonnaise: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, minced garlic (or garlic powder), Parmesan cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are thoroughly combined. If you like a stronger garlic flavor, add a little more garlic!
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Spread the mixture: Generously spread the garlic mayonnaise mixture onto each slice of baguette. Make sure to cover both sides for maximum flavor.
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Optional: Add melted butter: For an extra layer of richness and flavor, brush the top of each slice with melted butter.
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Bake: Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
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Garnish and serve: Once baked, garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and serve immediately. This garlic bread is best enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven.
Tips for the Best Garlic Bread:
- Use a good quality baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette is key to achieving the perfect texture.
- Don't overbake: Overbaking can lead to dry, hard bread. Start checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark.
- Get creative with your toppings: Feel free to experiment with other herbs and cheeses. Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, or some dried oregano for an Italian twist.
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the garlic mayonnaise mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Variations:
- Spicy Garlic Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic mayonnaise mixture for a spicy twist.
- Herb Garlic Bread: Incorporate other fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the mayonnaise mixture.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Increase the amount of Parmesan cheese or add other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the baguette and the ingredients used. However, a typical serving will contain approximately:
- Calories: 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Protein: 3-5g
This recipe offers a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic side dish. It's a perfect addition to soups, salads, or any main course you might be serving. The creamy mayonnaise adds a unique depth of flavor that will quickly become a family favorite. Try this recipe and let us know what you think! We are always looking for new healthy meal ideas and delicious dishes to share. This is certainly one of the best recipes for a simple yet satisfying addition to your next meal.