Homemade Garlic Bread - The Perfect Side Dish

There’s nothing quite like the smell of garlic bread fresh out of the oven. It’s a comfort food staple, perfect alongside a bowl of pasta, soup, or even just on its own as a delicious snack. Whether you're hosting a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, garlic bread never disappoints. Today, I’m sharing my tried-and-true recipe for making the perfect garlic bread that’s easy, homemade, golden, crispy, and bursting with flavor in every bite.

While it might be tempting to grab a pre-made loaf from the store, homemade garlic bread is always worth the extra effort. Making it from scratch allows you to control the freshness of ingredients, and it’s so easy that once you’ve made it, you’ll wonder why you ever bought the packaged version. Plus, the aroma of buttery garlic and herbs baking in the oven is absolutely irresistible.

One of the best things about this recipe is its simplicity. You can certainly elevate it to a more gourmet version, but what I love is that with just a few basic ingredients you likely already have on hand, you can create a savory, mouthwatering side dish that everyone will enjoy.

Here's what you'll need:

• 1 loaf of French bread: The foundation of garlic bread. Its crusty outside and soft interior make it the ideal choice.
• 2 sticks of butter (½ cup/8oz), softened: Butter gives garlic bread its rich, creamy texture.
• 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a subtle sharpness that pairs perfectly with the garlic.
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder: You can adjust the amount if you want a more or less garlicky flavor.
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon of dried parsley): Fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color and a subtle freshness, but dried parsley works just as well and is often readily available in your pantry.

Garlic bread is one of those recipes that’s not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or lasagna, or pair it with a hearty bowl of soup. It’s also great as an appetizer or a snack for game day parties or casual get-togethers. And if you're feeling creative, you can add extra herbs or cheeses to suit your taste.

There’s something magical about the simplicity of garlic bread. It's a humble side dish, but when made right, it’s packed with flavor and always leaves people coming back for more. This easy-to-follow recipe will become your go-to for any occasion. So the next time you’re looking for a quick, comforting side, give this homemade garlic bread recipe a try — you won’t be disappointed!