If you’re looking for an easy, homemade-style garlic and herb bread recipe but don’t want the hassle of making dough from scratch, you’re in the right place. With just a loaf of store-bought bread and a few pantry staples, you can make a garlic and herb bread that’s restaurant-quality in both flavor and presentation.
Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, serving it as an appetizer, or just craving a savory snack, this recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic and Herb Bread
This recipe transforms ordinary store-bought bread into something truly special. It’s loaded with buttery garlic flavor, fresh herbs, and a touch of salt and pepper. The bread comes out golden, crispy on the edges, and soft in the center. Plus, it takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish — perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or whenever you want to impress without a lot of effort.
Ingredients for Garlic and Herb Bread
- 1 loaf of French bread, Italian bread, or a baguette
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella for a cheesy finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Slice the Bread
Slice the loaf in half lengthwise to create two large flat surfaces. Alternatively, slice into thick individual pieces if you prefer single-serve portions.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), chopped parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir until the mixture is well combined and aromatic.
Step 4: Spread the Butter Mixture
Generously brush the garlic herb butter over the cut sides of the bread. Be sure to coat the entire surface evenly, reaching all the way to the edges. If using Parmesan or mozzarella, sprinkle it over the buttered bread at this point.
Step 5: Bake
Place the bread on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden and the edges are crisp.
Step 6: Optional Broiling
For a more golden, crispy top, switch the oven to broil and broil the bread for 1-2 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 7: Slice and Serve
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Fresh Herbs vs. Dried: Fresh herbs provide the most flavor and visual appeal, but dried herbs work well in a pinch. If substituting, use about half the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh.
- Cheese Options: For a richer flavor, add shredded mozzarella, provolone, or a sprinkle of Parmesan before baking.
- Extra Crispy: For extra crispy bread, toast the slices directly on the oven rack instead of on a baking sheet.
- Pan Toast Method: Alternatively, spread the butter mixture on individual slices and toast them in a skillet over medium heat until golden on each side.
Variations
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add a layer of mozzarella and provolone on top before baking for a melty, cheesy finish.
- Spicy Garlic Bread: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the butter mixture for extra heat.
- Herb Compound Butter: Prepare the butter mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. It’s great not just for bread but also for steak, roasted vegetables, or seafood.
- Sourdough Option: Use sourdough bread for a tangy twist that pairs wonderfully with garlic and herbs.
What to Serve With Garlic and Herb Bread
- Pasta: Classic pairings include spaghetti, fettuccine Alfredo, or lasagna.
- Soups: Tomato basil soup, creamy potato soup, or French onion soup.
- Salads: Caesar salad or a crisp garden salad.
- Charcuterie Boards: Add slices to a cheese and charcuterie board for a hearty bread option.
- Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover garlic bread wrapped in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or toast slices in a skillet until heated through.
Garlic and Herb Bread
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread Italian bread, or baguette
- ½ cup unsalted butter melted
- 4 cloves garlic minced (or 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Optional: ¼ cup grated Parmesan or shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Slice Bread: Cut the loaf in half lengthwise, or slice into thick individual pieces if preferred.
- Prepare Garlic Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Brush Bread: Generously brush the butter mixture over the cut sides of the bread. If using cheese, sprinkle it evenly on top.
- Bake: Place bread on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- Optional Broil: For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Slice & Serve: Let cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
