This Sourdough Garlic Bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, infused with garlic and herbs. It’s perfect for dipping in soups or enjoying alongside pasta!
Honestly, there’s nothing better than the smell of garlic bread coming out of the oven. I might eat half a loaf just by myself! Who can resist that warm, buttery goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: This bread has a perfect tangy flavor and texture that enhances garlic bread. If sourdough isn’t available, a rustic whole wheat or Italian bread works well too.
Unsalted Butter: I always use unsalted butter so I can better control the salt in the recipe. You can substitute with a plant-based butter if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that intense flavor, but if you don’t have it, garlic powder can work in a pinch—just use about 1 teaspoon per clove.
Fresh Herbs: I love using parsley and chives for freshness. If you don’t have fresh herbs, 1 teaspoon of dried herbs can be a good alternative. Oregano or thyme adds a nice touch too.
Parmesan Cheese: This enhances the savory taste. If you’re vegan, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Or omit it altogether!
How Do You Get the Garlic Butter Spread Evenly Between the Slices?
Getting that garlic butter evenly into the bread is crucial for flavor. Here are some tips to help you out:
- Make sure the butter is truly softened; it should be like cream cheese to spread easily.
- Use a small spatula or a butter knife to spread the butter thoroughly between each slice.
- Don’t forget to apply butter on the outer sides for an extra crispy finish.
By taking your time with this step, you’ll ensure every bite is packed with that garlic goodness!
How to Make Sourdough Garlic Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Garlic Butter:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced finely
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for a slight heat)
For the Bread:
- 1 loaf of sourdough bread (about 12-14 oz)
For Optional Toppings:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Marinara or tomato sauce for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus about 25 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes before you can enjoy your warm and cheesy garlic bread!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure the bread bakes evenly and gets nice and crispy!
2. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chives (if you’re using them), salt, pepper, and red chili flakes. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and the garlic is evenly distributed.
3. Prepare the Bread:
Take your loaf of sourdough bread and slice it into about 1-inch thick pieces. Be careful to not cut all the way through the bottom—leave the base intact so that the loaf holds together!
4. Spread the Garlic Butter:
Using a butter knife or a spatula, spread the garlic butter mixture generously between each slice of the sourdough. Make sure to get butter on both sides of each slice for the best flavor!
5. Add Cheese (Optional):
If you love cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top of the bread for a delicious cheesy crust. This step is completely optional but definitely worth it if you’re a cheese lover!
6. Wrap and Bake:
Wrap the entire loaf in aluminum foil to keep the moisture in, and place it on a baking sheet. Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Then, unwrap the foil to expose the top of the bread and continue baking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
7. Let It Cool & Serve:
Once your garlic bread is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute or two. This step is important to avoid burning your fingers! Serve it warm with marinara or tomato sauce for dipping, if desired.
Enjoy your delicious, crispy, and aromatic sourdough garlic bread!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough gives a distinctive flavor and texture, you can use other types of crusty bread like ciabatta or French bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the garlic butter!
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Garlic?
If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you can substitute it with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic. Just mix it in with the butter for an easy alternative!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover garlic bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap it in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze Sourdough Garlic Bread?
Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap the unbaked garlic bread tightly in aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
