GARLIC BREAD WITH A SOFT, CRISPY CRUST
INGREDIENTS
- 1 large French baguette or Italian loaf
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced (or 1–1½ tsp garlic powder)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2–3 tbsp grated Parmesan (optional but delicious)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat the oven
- Heat to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the garlic butter
In a small bowl, mix together:
- softened butter
- minced garlic
- parsley
- salt
- pepper
- Parmesan (if using)
Stir until fully combined.
3. Prepare the bread
- Slice the baguette in half lengthwise.
- Spread a generous, even layer of garlic butter over both cut sides.
- For extra softness, wrap the loaf loosely in foil (leaving a slight opening on top).
- This traps steam for softness but allows the top to crisp.
4. Bake
- Place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until warmed through.
- Open the foil and bake 5–7 more minutes to crisp the top while keeping the inside soft.
5. Optional: Broil for extra crunch
- Broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely, until the edges are golden.
6. Slice & serve
Let it cool for 1–2 minutes, then slice and serve warm.
OPTIONAL ADD-INS
- Mozzarella topping: add shredded mozzarella during the last 5 minutes
- Herb mix: add oregano or basil to the butter
- Spicy version: add red pepper flakes
- Extra soft version: keep the foil fully sealed during baking