I love making this garlic parmesan herb bread when I want a warm, savory side that instantly elevates any meal. The buttery garlic spread melts into the bread, while the herbs and parmesan create a rich, aromatic finish. It’s simple to prepare, yet it tastes like something special straight from a bakery.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I appreciate how quickly this bread comes together with everyday ingredients. The crispy edges and soft center create the perfect texture contrast.
I also enjoy how adaptable it is. I can pair it with pasta, soups, salads, or serve it as an appetizer. It always disappears fast whenever I bring it to the table.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
french bread or italian loaf
unsalted butter, softened
garlic cloves, finely minced
fresh parsley, chopped
fresh thyme, chopped
dried oregano
grated parmesan cheese
mozzarella cheese (optional)
salt
black pepper
Directions
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I start by preheating my oven to 375°F (190°C).
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I slice the loaf in half lengthwise and place it cut-side up on a baking sheet.
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In a bowl, I mix the softened butter with minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
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I spread the garlic herb butter evenly over both halves of the bread.
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I sprinkle grated parmesan cheese generously on top.
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If I want it extra cheesy, I add a thin layer of mozzarella as well.
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I bake for 12–15 minutes until the bread is warmed through and the edges begin to crisp.
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For a golden top, I broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
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I slice and serve it warm.
Servings and Timing
This recipe typically serves 6–8 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: Approximately 25 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add red pepper flakes for a slight kick. If I want deeper flavor, I roast the garlic before mixing it into the butter.
For a softer texture, I wrap the bread loosely in foil while baking. I also like experimenting with different cheeses such as asiago or provolone.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
When reheating, I warm the slices in the oven at 350°F until heated through. I avoid microwaving for too long to keep the crust from becoming soft.
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, I reduce the quantity slightly because dried herbs have a stronger flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, I prepare the butter mixture and spread it on the bread, then refrigerate it until ready to bake.
What bread works best?
I prefer french or italian bread because it has a sturdy crust and soft interior.
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, I freeze it before baking and cook it directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How do I keep it from getting too crispy?
I avoid overbaking and cover it lightly with foil if I want a softer result.
Conclusion
I truly enjoy making this garlic parmesan herb bread because it’s easy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The buttery garlic and savory cheese create a perfect balance in every bite. Whenever I need a dependable side dish that feels warm and comforting, this is the recipe I love to prepare.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A warm and savory garlic parmesan herb bread featuring a buttery garlic spread, fragrant herbs, and a generous layer of parmesan baked until golden and crisp. This easy side dish pairs perfectly with pasta, soups, or salads.
Ingredients
- 1 French bread or Italian loaf
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the loaf in half lengthwise and place cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- In a bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over both halves of the bread.
- Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese generously on top.
- Add mozzarella cheese if using for extra cheesiness.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until warmed through and edges are lightly crisp.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes for a golden top, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Slice and serve warm.
Notes
- Add red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
- Use roasted garlic for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
- Wrap loosely in foil while baking for a softer texture.
- Experiment with cheeses like asiago or provolone.
- Store at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispness.
- Freeze before baking and cook from frozen, adding extra baking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
