Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread

Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread is your secret weapon for making restaurant-quality garlic bread at home in minutes. Rich, buttery, and packed with fresh garlic and herbs, this spread transforms any loaf of bread into a golden, crispy, and flavorful side dish. Perfect for pasta nights, soups, or snacking, it’s a quick and delicious addition to any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This garlic bread spread is incredibly simple and endlessly versatile. Made with basic pantry ingredients, it whips up in minutes and can be slathered on any type of bread—from French loaves to sandwich rolls. Customize it to your liking with cheese, herbs, or spice, and enjoy warm, buttery garlic bread fresh from your oven anytime.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter (softened)
• Garlic (minced or grated)
• Fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt
• Olive oil (optional for extra richness)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Optional: Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, or lemon zest

directions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt.
2. Mix until smooth and fully blended. Add olive oil and Parmesan if using, and stir to incorporate.
3. Spread generously onto sliced bread or halved loaves.
4. For a crispy finish, place under the broiler for 23 minutes or bake at 375°F for 1012 minutes until golden and bubbly.
5. Slice and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes
Servings: Enough for 1 loaf or 68 slices of bread

Variations

• Cheesy garlic bread: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top before baking.
• Spicy kick: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of hot sauce.
• Herb-loaded: Mix in basil, oregano, or chives for more herbal flavor.
• Citrus twist: Add lemon zest for brightness and freshness.
• Vegan version: Use vegan butter and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

To freeze, place portions of the spread on parchment paper or freeze in small containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and use as needed.

To reheat garlic bread, warm in a 350°F oven for 57 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, substitute ½ teaspoon of garlic powder per tablespoon of fresh garlic for a milder flavor.

What bread works best?

French bread, Italian loaves, ciabatta, or baguettes are ideal, but any crusty bread will work.

Can I make this spread ahead of time?

Absolutely—store in the fridge and use as needed. Great for meal prep.

Is salted or unsalted butter better?

Unsalted gives you control over the salt level, but you can use salted butter and adjust accordingly.

Can I use dried parsley?

Yes, use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley if fresh isn’t available.

Can I toast the bread in a pan?

Yes, spread on slices and toast in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy.

Is this spread freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze in portions and thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before using.

What can I serve garlic bread with?

Pasta, soups, salads, roasted meats, or simply on its own as a snack or appetizer.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, though the flavor will differ slightly. Choose a high-quality margarine for best results.

Can I add cheese directly into the spread?

Yes, Parmesan or shredded cheeses can be mixed into the butter for a cheesy, melty spread.

Conclusion

Easy Homemade Garlic Bread Spread is a simple, flavorful way to elevate your meals with minimal effort. Whether slathered on a crusty loaf or used as a base for garlic toast, it brings warm, buttery, garlicky comfort to any dish. Whip up a batch and enjoy fresh, golden garlic bread whenever the craving hits—it’s a kitchen staple you’ll use again and again.

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