This Sourdough Garlic Bread is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in. Its rich and buttery flavor, combined with the delightful aroma of fresh garlic and herbs, makes it an irresistible side dish. The crunchy exterior and soft, cheesy interior create a satisfying texture that will leave everyone asking for more. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this garlic bread will surely become a staple at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: This sourdough garlic bread is bursting with rich garlic and herb flavors that complement any meal.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time.
- Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for pairing with pasta, soups, or salads, it’s a great addition to any meal.
- Perfect for Sharing: The pull-apart nature of this bread makes it ideal for gatherings and parties.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your sourdough garlic bread, gather the necessary tools to ensure a seamless cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Small ramekin
- Fork
- Small bowl
- Offset spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your sourdough garlic bread.
- Small ramekin: Ideal for roasting garlic in olive oil without making a mess.
- Offset spatula: Helps spread the buttery mixture evenly into the slits of the bread.
Ingredients
This rich and buttery sourdough garlic bread is loaded with so much delicious garlic flavor. Full of herbs, fresh garlic, and nutty parmesan cheese. It’s the ultimate side dish and is so easy to make.
For the Bread
- 14 oz Sourdough Loaf
- 10 tbsp Butter (unsalted)
- 12 cloves Garlic (peeled)
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 2 tbsp Parsley (roughly chopped, plus more for garnish)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1/4 tsp Sea salt
How to Make Sourdough Garlic Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350℉. This ensures that your sourdough garlic bread bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Slice the sourdough loaf into 1-inch slices. Be cautious not to cut all the way through; leave about half an inch uncut at the bottom. Place the loaf on a parchment or foil-lined baking sheet.
Step 3: Roast the Garlic
Add peeled garlic cloves and red pepper flakes (if using) to a small ramekin. Cover them with olive oil. Place this ramekin inside your preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes until the garlic becomes fork-tender. Allow it to cool completely after roasting.
Step 4: Smash the Garlic
Once cooled, remove the roasted garlic from the oil (make sure to reserve that delicious oil for later). Use a fork to smash the roasted garlic cloves into a paste-like consistency.
Step 5: Make the Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine softened butter with smashed roasted garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, parsley, and grated parmesan cheese. Season this mixture with sea salt according to your taste.
Step 6: Stuff the Bread
Using an offset spatula, generously spread the flavorful butter mixture into every slit of the sliced sourdough loaf. Ensure each slice gets plenty of that tasty filling!
Step 7: Bake Your Bread
Wrap your prepared sourdough loaf in foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden crust.
Now you have perfectly baked Sourdough Garlic Bread, ready to be served! Enjoy as an appetizer or side dish at your next meal!
How to Serve Sourdough Garlic Bread
Sourdough garlic bread is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether as an appetizer or a side, it complements various meals beautifully.
With Pasta Dishes
- Spaghetti Aglio e Olio: This simple pasta dish pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of sourdough garlic bread.
- Fettuccine Alfredo: The creamy sauce enhances the garlic notes in the bread, making for a delightful meal.
As a Snack
- With Marinara Sauce: Dip slices into warm marinara for a tasty snack that adds a savory twist.
- With Cheese Dip: Perfect for gatherings, serve sourdough garlic bread alongside your favorite cheese dip.
For Breakfast
- Eggs Benedict: Enjoy a slice of sourdough garlic bread in place of the traditional English muffin for an extra flavor boost.
- Avocado Toast: Top with smashed avocado and seasonings for a hearty breakfast option.
At Parties
- Charcuterie Board: Include slices of sourdough garlic bread on a charcuterie board to complement meats and cheeses.
- Bruschetta Topping: Use it as a base for bruschetta topped with tomatoes, basil, and balsamic glaze.
How to Perfect Sourdough Garlic Bread
To achieve the best sourdough garlic bread, focus on these tips that enhance its flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly peeled garlic provides a stronger flavor compared to pre-minced options.
- Keep the Butter Soft: Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy spreading without tearing the bread.
- Don’t Skip the Herbs: Adding fresh or dried herbs, like parsley or Italian seasoning, boosts the overall taste.
- Control Your Baking Time: Bake just long enough to melt the butter without drying out the bread. Keep an eye on it!
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for unique flavor profiles.
- Add More Spice: If you enjoy heat, increase red pepper flakes for an extra kick in each bite.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Garlic Bread
Sourdough garlic bread pairs well with several side dishes that make any meal complete. Here are some fantastic options.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine and parmesan that balances the richness of garlic bread.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your flavorful dish.
- Tomato Basil Soup: This classic combo is perfect; dip your garlic bread into warm soup for added comfort.
- Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken serves as a hearty main that complements the buttery goodness of garlic bread.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers offer a satisfying texture contrast alongside your sourdough delight.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw brings freshness and cuts through the richness of garlic butter.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sourdough Garlic Bread can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Not using fresh garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor of your sourdough garlic bread. Avoid using pre-minced garlic, as it lacks the robust taste of fresh cloves.
- Skipping the resting time: Allowing your butter mixture to sit for a few minutes after mixing helps the flavors meld. Don’t rush this step for maximum flavor.
- Overbaking the bread: Baking too long can dry out your sourdough garlic bread. Keep an eye on it to achieve a perfect golden crust without burning.
- Ignoring the seasoning: Seasoning is key to delicious bread. Don’t skip adding salt or herbs; they enhance the overall taste significantly.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter doesn’t spread well and may not mix properly with other ingredients. Always use softened butter for easy spreading.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sourdough garlic bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Wrap slices in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
Freezing Sourdough Garlic Bread
- Freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Ensure all air is removed from the bag before sealing.
Reheating Sourdough Garlic Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and wrap the bread in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 15-20 seconds.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Sourdough Garlic Bread, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use any type of sourdough bread?
Yes, you can use any type of sourdough loaf you prefer! Just ensure it’s fresh for best results.
How do I know when my garlic is done?
The garlic should be fork-tender and slightly golden. Keep an eye on it while roasting!
Can I customize my Sourdough Garlic Bread?
Absolutely! Feel free to add different herbs or cheeses based on your preferences.
How do I make it spicier?
For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños into the mix.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough Garlic Bread is not only easy to make but also incredibly flavorful and versatile. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer or alongside your favorite meal, it’s sure to impress. You can easily customize it with different herbs or cheeses, making it a delightful addition to any table. Try this recipe today!
Sourdough Garlic Bread
Sourdough Garlic Bread is the ultimate comfort food that elevates any meal with its rich, buttery flavor and irresistible aroma. This delightful side dish features a crunchy exterior contrasted by a soft, cheesy interior, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying during a cozy night in. With the irresistible combination of freshly roasted garlic and aromatic herbs infused into every bite, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple at your table. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, you’ll find yourself reaching for this savory treat again and again.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 14 oz Sourdough Loaf
- 10 tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 12 cloves Garlic (peeled)
- 2 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 2 tbsp Parsley (roughly chopped)
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1/4 tsp Sea Salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Slice the sourdough loaf into 1-inch thick slits without cutting through completely.
- Roast garlic cloves with olive oil in a ramekin for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- Smash roasted garlic into a paste and mix with butter, garlic powder, seasonings, parsley, and Parmesan.
- Generously spread the mixture into each slit of the bread.
- Wrap in foil and bake for 15 minutes; then remove foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 70g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 19g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
