Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread: 5 Savory Steps to Perfection

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread is a delicious, savory treat that elevates any meal. Combining three types of garlic—roasted, fresh, and garlic powder—this bread offers an unforgettable flavor profile. Enhanced with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese, it comes out beautifully golden and crisp, making it the perfect side for pastas, soups, or salads. Let’s dive into this mouth-watering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread

This Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread is not just another bread; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:

Rich, savory flavor from roasted garlic and fresh herbs.
Perfectly crispy crust with a soft, buttery interior.
Easy to make with simple ingredients like Garlic Parmesan Bread and herbs.
Versatile—great as a starter, side, or even as a sandwich base.
Ideal for pairing with Italian dishes, soups, or salads.
Vegetarian-friendly, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.

This recipe is a classic in Italian cuisine and is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners.

Ingredients for Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread

Gather these items:

1 loaf Italian or French bread (approx. 16 ounces), sliced in half lengthwise
1 head garlic
1-2 teaspoons olive oil
½ cup very soft unsalted butter (1 stick)
8 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup finely chopped leafy fresh herbs (e.g., basil, parsley, oregano)
1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Kosher salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste

How to Make Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F with a rack positioned in the center. Remove excess paper from the garlic head and slice off the top to expose the cloves. Drizzle lightly with olive oil, wrap in foil, and place on a small baking sheet. Roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour until fragrant and golden. Remove from the oven and let cool.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, finely chopped fresh garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped fresh herbs, garlic powder, and dried Italian seasoning. Season generously with kosher salt and ground black pepper. Once the roasted garlic is cool, squeeze the soft cloves from the head directly into the bowl and mix thoroughly until well incorporated.
Step 3: Generously spread the prepared garlic herb butter over the cut sides of the bread halves.
Step 4: Place the buttered bread halves on a large baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the bread is warmed through and butter is melted.
Step 5: For extra toastiness, switch the oven to broil and broil the bread on the center rack for 2 to 3 minutes until the edges are golden brown and crisp. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Step 6: Remove from the oven, transfer to a cutting board, and slice into 16 individual pieces with a serrated knife. Serve immediately alongside pasta, soups, or salads. Enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread

Keep these in mind:

For an extra burst of flavor, consider using a mix of herbs for your Garlic Parmesan Loaf Recipe.
Ensure your butter is very soft for easy spreading.
Broiling is key for that crispy finish; just keep an eye on it!
Using fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate your dish significantly.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread

This Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread is incredibly versatile. Here are some great serving suggestions:

Pair it with a rich marinara sauce for dipping.
Use it as a side with Italian entrees like lasagna or spaghetti.
Enjoy it warm as a starter with a fresh salad.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread

To store, simply wrap any leftovers in foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This bread can last for up to 3 days at room temperature. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the bread crispy and delicious, perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread?

The secret lies in the blend of fresh, roasted, and powdered garlic. This combination creates a rich, complex flavor that elevates the bread to new heights. Using fresh herbs like basil and parsley also enhances its taste.

Can I make Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic herb butter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just spread it on the bread before baking to enjoy fresh-baked flavor any time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread?

To avoid sogginess, make sure to toast the bread well and keep an eye on it while broiling. Also, ensure your garlic is fresh and not overly browned, as that can lead to a bitter taste.

Variations of Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread You Can Try

Looking to mix it up? Here are a few variations:

Try adding roasted red peppers for a sweet twist.
Incorporate different cheese varieties, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a cheesy garlic bread with herbs.
For a spicy flair, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños to your garlic butter.

These variations can cater to different tastes and dietary preferences, making it a delightful option for everyone!

Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread: 5 Savory Steps to Perfection - Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Apple Pie Baked Oats or Pumpkin Sage Soup!

Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread: 5 Savory Steps to Perfection - Garlic Herb Parmesan Bread - additional detail

For more information on the health benefits of garlic, visit Healthline.

To learn more about the versatility of bread in cooking, check out Serious Eats.