If you love the irresistible combination of crispy, buttery bread infused with fragrant herbs and garlic, this Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. It’s a simple yet flavorful twist on classic garlic bread that brings golden, crunchy perfection to your table in just minutes. Whether you’re pairing it with pasta, soup, or just craving a savory snack, this recipe delivers that cozy, homemade charm everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of creamy, aromatic, and toasty flavors that make each bite unforgettable.
- Country Crock® Spread: This buttery spread melts smoothly to coat the bread, giving that rich, creamy texture without overpowering the herbs.
- Mixed dried herbs: A blend like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a warm, earthy depth—use fresh if you prefer a brighter, more vibrant herb flavor.
- Garlic powder: Concentrated garlic flavor that infuses every crispy corner, perfect for that classic garlicky punch without the mess of fresh garlic.
- French or Italian bread: The sturdy crust and soft interior of these loaves hold the herb butter beautifully, achieving that perfect crunch and tender chew.
How to Make Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
First things first, place your oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat the broiler. This high, direct heat is what creates that deliciously golden and crispy crust that makes garlic bread so irresistible.
Step 2: Make the Herb Butter
Next, mix the Country Crock® Spread with your herbs and garlic powder in a small bowl. This step is key to evenly spreading those fantastic flavors across every inch of your bread.
Step 3: Prepare the Bread
Slice your loaf in half lengthwise so you get two large “bread canvases.” Then, spread the herbed butter mixture generously on each half, making sure to cover every edge for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Broil to Perfection
Pop the buttered bread halves under the broiler for about 2 minutes. Watch closely—it can transform from golden to burnt very quickly. Once the tops are beautifully crisp and fragrant, they’re ready!
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Take your bread out of the oven, slice it into servings, and serve while warm. The aroma alone will have everyone reaching for a piece immediately.
How to Serve Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of freshness and color, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese over your bread just before serving. These simple garnishes elevate both the appearance and taste.
Side Dishes
This Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Italian dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or a rich tomato soup. It’s also a fantastic companion to grilled vegetables or a fresh, crisp salad—perfect for rounding out any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your garlic bread into a party star by twisting it into savory garlic knots or using the slices to create mini bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes and basil. These ideas transform simple herbed garlic bread into elegant appetizers everyone will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover herbed garlic bread, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days while maintaining much of its flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze the prepared but un-toasted bread after spreading the herb butter. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It’ll keep for up to a month, ready to broil whenever you’re craving that savory goodness.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, pop the garlic bread slices in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, which can leave the bread soggy instead of perfectly toasted.
FAQs
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Absolutely! Fresh garlic will give you a more intense and slightly different flavor, but be sure to mince it finely and mix it well into the butter so it distributes evenly without overpowering.
What herbs work best in this Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe?
A blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and parsley works beautifully. Fresh herbs offer a bright flavor, while dried herbs give a deeper, more concentrated taste—try experimenting to find your perfect mix.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Using a vegan butter substitute like Country Crock® Spread or your favorite plant-based butter makes this recipe fully vegan-friendly without sacrificing flavor or texture.
How crispy will the bread get under the broiler?
The broiler crisps the top beautifully while keeping the inside soft and tender. Just keep a close eye to avoid burning, as broilers vary in intensity.
Is it better to use French or Italian bread?
Both types work wonderfully. French bread tends to be lighter and airier, while Italian bread is denser—choose your favorite texture as both soak up the herb butter deliciously.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and celebratory about homemade herbed garlic bread, and this Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe makes it effortless to create. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it’s sure to warm hearts and satisfy cravings with its golden crunch and fragrant herbiness. Give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
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Herbed Garlic Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This quick and easy Herbed Garlic Bread recipe features a flavorful blend of herb-infused butter spread over crusty French or Italian bread, broiled to golden perfection. Perfect as a side dish or appetizer, it’s a delicious way to complement any meal with minimal prep and cook time.
Ingredients
Herb Butter Spread
- 1/4 cup Country Crock® Spread (or your favorite butter substitute)
- 1 teaspoon mixed dried herbs (or 1 tablespoon fresh, finely chopped herbs)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Bread
- 1 (12-ounce) loaf of French or Italian bread
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven: Set an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source and preheat your oven’s broiler to get it ready for cooking.
- Make the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, combine the Country Crock® Spread, mixed dried herbs, and garlic powder until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the loaf of bread lengthwise into two halves. Place the halves cut side up on a baking sheet and spread the herb butter mixture evenly over each surface.
- Broil the Bread: Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler. Broil the bread for about 2 minutes or until the top turns golden brown and crispy. Watch closely to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the bread from the oven, slice it into servings, and serve warm alongside your favorite meals.
Notes
- Keep a close eye on the bread while broiling as it can burn quickly.
- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- For a richer taste, you can substitute the butter substitute with regular butter.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
