This sourdough garlic bread is a tasty treat that’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. The garlic adds a lovely flavor that makes it hard to resist!
Honestly, smothering this bread with butter and garlic is like giving yourself a hug! I can’t help but enjoy it with pasta or just on its own—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough bread: A hearty loaf is key to this recipe. If you can’t find sourdough, any crusty bread like French or Italian can work too. Just select something with a good chewy texture.
Unsalted butter: I love using unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness. If you’re dairy-free, consider using plant-based butter or olive oil, but the flavor will change a bit.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best for this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used instead. Just reduce the quantity, as it’s more concentrated. I’ve used roasted garlic before for a sweeter taste!
Fresh parsley: This adds a nice color and flavor. If you don’t have parsley, fresh basil or chives could be a great substitute. Dried herbs work too—just use less!
Parmesan cheese: It adds a cheesy kick, but feel free to skip it or substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor and Texture in My Garlic Bread?
The key to delicious garlic bread is in the butter and garlic mixture! Start by mixing your softened butter with garlic, parsley, and salt, ensuring it’s well combined. If you want the garlic flavor to be intense, let it sit for about 15 minutes before using—this helps infuse the butter.
- Be generous with the garlic butter between slices and on top of the loaf, allowing it to melt into the bread while baking.
- Wrapping the bread in foil keeps it soft; opening the foil towards the end gives you that lovely crisp crust. Just be sure to keep an eye on it while broiling!
- Pairing it with a dip like marinara adds a nice touch, but this bread is fantastic on its own too!
With these tips in mind, you’re set for a delicious garlic bread that everyone will love!
How to Make Sourdough Garlic Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 loaf of sourdough bread
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 4-5 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for serving
- Optional: Marinara sauce or chili oil for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This garlic bread recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes to bake. So, you can whip this delicious dish up in just about 25 minutes, making it a quick and scrumptious side or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when the bread goes in!
2. Prepare the Bread:
Grab your sourdough loaf and slice it into 1 to 1.5-inch thick slices. You can cut all the way through or leave it partially joined at the bottom, depending on how you like it. Just make sure not to cut through the base!
3. Make the Garlic Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and salt. Make sure it’s mixed well! If you’re adding Parmesan cheese, go ahead and mix that in too.
4. Spread the Mixture:
Now, take that tasty garlic butter and spread it generously between the slices of bread and over the top. Get it into all the little crevices so every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Wrap and Bake:
Wrap the loaf in aluminum foil to keep it moist and place it on a baking sheet. Now, pop it in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes until the butter is melted and the bread is warmed through.
6. Optional Crisping:
If you like your garlic bread extra crispy, open up the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking or switch to broil for just 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s done, take the bread out of the oven and let it cool for a few moments. Then, serve it warm! If you like, set out some marinara sauce or chili oil for dipping.
This sourdough garlic bread is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. With its deliciously crispy crust and flavorful garlic-parsley blend, it’s perfect as a side or just on its own. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough adds a unique flavor and texture, you can use any crusty bread like French or Italian if you prefer. Just ensure it’s hearty enough to hold the garlic butter without falling apart!
How Do I Store Leftover Garlic Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or pop it in the toaster oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make This Garlic Butter Mixture Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Make the garlic butter mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just let it soften back to room temperature before spreading it on the bread to ensure even distribution.
What Can I Serve with Sourdough Garlic Bread?
This garlic bread pairs wonderfully with pasta, salads, or even soups like minestrone or tomato basil. For a fun twist, serve it with marinara sauce or chili oil for dipping!