Garlic parmesan bread. Those three words conjure up the warmest, most comforting memories. My grandmother, Nonna Emilia, used to make this artisan garlic bread every Sunday. The aroma alone was enough to draw the whole family into the kitchen, anticipation bubbling in our stomachs. It wasn’t just bread; it was a tradition, a symbol of family, and pure, unadulterated joy. This garlic parmesan bread recipe is my attempt to recreate that magic, to share a piece of my heart with you.
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Why You Will Love This garlic parmesan bread Recipe
This isn’t just any garlic bread; it’s *the* garlic bread. It’s the kind that vanishes within minutes of hitting the table, the kind that makes you want to lick your fingers clean. It provides a comforting warmth that spreads from your belly to your soul. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. From start to finish, you’ll have fresh, flavorful garlic parmesan bread ready to devour in under an hour.
The combination of crispy crust, soft, chewy interior, and that pungent garlic parmesan topping is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect accompaniment to pasta night, a cozy soup supper, or even just a satisfying snack on its own. It’s more than a recipe; it’s an experience, a taste of home, and a little slice of heaven.
Ingredients Needed for This garlic parmesan bread Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing artisan garlic bread:
- For the Bread:
- For the Garlic Parmesan Topping:
How to Make This garlic parmesan bread Recipe
Ready to transform simple bread into something extraordinary? Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect garlic parmesan bread every time.
- 1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- 2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- 3. Spread the garlic parmesan mixture evenly over the cut sides of the Italian bread. Make sure to cover every nook and cranny for maximum flavor.
- 4. Place the bread halves on a baking sheet.
- 5. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the garlic parmesan topping is bubbly and fragrant. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- 6. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
How to Serve This garlic parmesan bread Recipe
This garlic parmesan bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with so many dishes!
- Serve alongside your favorite pasta dishes, like spaghetti marinara, lasagna, or creamy Alfredo. Perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce!
- Enjoy it with a warm bowl of soup, like tomato soup, minestrone, or French onion soup. The crusty bread is perfect for dipping!
- Use it to make delicious sandwiches or crostini. Top with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a quick and easy appetizer.
- Simply serve it as a snack or appetizer on its own. It is guaranteed to disappear fast!
How to Store This garlic parmesan bread Recipe
Want to save some for later (if there’s any left!) Here’s how to store your garlic parmesan bread:
- Refrigeration: Wrap leftover garlic parmesan bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the bread. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then in foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen garlic parmesan bread, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last few minutes to crisp up the crust.
Tips to Make This garlic parmesan bread Recipe
- For extra garlicky flavor, roast the garlic cloves before mincing them. This will mellow out the flavor and add a delicious caramelized sweetness.
- Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan is always preferable to pre grated.
- Don’t overbake the bread, or it will become dry. Keep a close eye on it in the oven and remove it when it is golden brown and the topping is bubbly.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley for every tablespoon of fresh parsley.
Helpful Notes for This garlic parmesan bread Recipe
- Bread: While Italian bread is traditional, you can experiment with other types of bread, such as French bread, sourdough, or even ciabatta.
- Garlic: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to your liking. If you’re a garlic lover, add an extra clove or two!
- Cheese: You can also add other cheeses to the topping, such as mozzarella, provolone, or Asiago.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil really enhances the flavor.
Variation of This garlic parmesan bread Recipe
- Spicy Garlic Parmesan Bread: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic parmesan topping for a little heat.
- Herb Garlic Parmesan Bread: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or basil.
- Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Bread: Add a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the garlic parmesan topping before baking for an extra cheesy treat.
- Artisan Garlic Bread with Pesto: Spread a thin layer of pesto under the garlic parmesan topping for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor.
What kind of bread is best for garlic parmesan bread?
A sturdy Italian loaf or a baguette works best for garlic parmesan bread. These breads can hold up to the garlic butter topping without becoming soggy.
How do I keep garlic parmesan bread from getting soggy?
To prevent soggy garlic parmesan bread, use a generous amount of melted butter with garlic and parmesan. Bake uncovered at a high temperature so the bread gets crispy.
Can I make garlic parmesan bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the garlic butter topping and spread it on the bread ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and bake just before serving making sure you do not overcook.
What is the best cheese to use for garlic parmesan bread?
Freshly grated parmesan cheese is highly recommended for garlic parmesan bread due to its rich flavor and ability to melt beautifully. You may also combine it with asiago or romano for an extra cheesy boost.
Conclusion
This garlic parmesan bread recipe is more than just a simple side dish; it’s a celebration of flavor, family, and good times. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or enjoying it on its own, this artisan garlic bread is sure to be a hit. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the pure joy of homemade garlic parmesan bread. Don’t forget to snap a picture and share your creation with us! We would be grateful for you to let us know what your experience was like with this garlic parmesan bread recipe.