Transform your classic side dish into a show-stopping star with "Secret Garlic French Bread My Way," a decadent twist on traditional garlic bread. This recipe combines a crusty French bread loaf with a rich, flavor-packed spread made from softened butter, freshly minced garlic, and a hint of olive oil for extra depth. Topped with a medley of Parmesan and gooey mozzarella cheeses, this savory bread is baked to golden perfection and finished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. Optional red pepper flakes add a spicy kick for those who love extra heat. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy-to-make garlic bread pairs beautifully with pasta, soups, or can even stand alone as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Perfectly crisp on the outside with a cheesy, garlicky indulgence on the inside, itβs a recipe you'll revisit time and time again.
Preheat your oven to 375Β°F (190Β°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Cut the French bread loaf in half lengthwise to create two open-faced pieces. Place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, olive oil, salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until a smooth and spreadable consistency is achieved.
Evenly spread the butter mixture over the cut sides of both bread halves, ensuring the mixture is distributed all the way to the edges.
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the buttered bread halves.
Bake the bread in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown.
For a crispier texture, switch the oven to broil mode and broil the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool for 2-3 minutes. Use a sharp knife to slice the bread into pieces of your desired size.
Serve warm and enjoy this indulgent garlic French bread alongside a bowl of pasta, a hearty soup, or as a standalone appetizer.
Calories |
1400 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 130.1 g | 167% | |
| Saturated Fat | 74.2 g | 371% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 322 mg | 107% | |
| Sodium | 1614 mg | 70% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35.0 g | 13% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.3 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 2.0 g | ||
| Protein | 27.2 g | 54% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 696 mg | 54% | |
| Iron | 3.4 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 258 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.