If you have ever dreamed of achieving the perfect garlic bread that is crispy on the outside, buttery and garlicky in every bite, and packed with bold flavors, then Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s not just any garlic bread; it’s a vibrant, irresistible combination of melted Parmesan, fragrant herbs, and a touch of heat from chili flakes that transforms a humble baguette into the life of any meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside a cozy pasta night or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe delivers comfort and excitement all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe shines because each ingredient is simple yet crucial to creating those layers of flavor and texture that make it unforgettable. The balance of creamy butter and olive oil gives richness, while garlic and herbs infuse the bread with vibrant aroma. Parmesan adds a sharp, salty finish that crisps up beautifully under the broiler.
- 12-oz baguette, sliced lengthwise: The sturdy foundation that crisps perfectly yet stays soft inside.
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Provides creamy richness to carry all the garlic and herb flavors.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Adds a fruity depth and helps create a golden crust.
- 1 tsp crushed red chile flakes: Introduces a gentle kick of heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings an earthy, aromatic layer to the flavor profile.
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed into a paste: The heart of this recipe, delivering that signature robust garlic punch.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the rich ingredients.
- â…“ cup grated Parmesan: Melts into a crispy, savory topping that complements the butter and garlic perfectly.
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped fresh chives: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of green for visual appeal.
How to Make Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Broiler
Start by heating your oven broiler on HIGH. This intense heat is what will toast your bread perfectly in just a couple of minutes, giving you that irresistible crunchy top without drying out the interior.
Step 2: Prepare the Baguette
Place the baguette sliced lengthwise with the cut sides facing up on a foil-lined baking sheet. Lining the sheet with foil makes cleanup a breeze and helps reflect heat back to the bread for an even toasting.
Step 3: Mix the Garlic Butter Spread
In a bowl, stir together the softened butter, olive oil, crushed red chile flakes, dried oregano, garlic paste, kosher salt, and freshly ground pepper until fully combined. This mixture is the magic that infuses every bite with warming, herby, and spicy notes.
Step 4: Apply the Spread and Parmesan
Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the baguette. Don’t skimp here—each inch should be generously coated to soak into the bread while baking. Then sprinkle the grated Parmesan over the top, adding that salty, nutty layer that crisps up beautifully.
Step 5: Broil Until Golden and Crisp
Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely so it doesn’t burn. When the edges turn golden and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned, your Carbone’s Garlic Bread is ready.
Step 6: Garnish and Slice
Remove the garlic bread from the oven and sprinkle with finely chopped fresh chives for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Slice into 2-inch pieces for easy serving and enjoy immediately for the best taste and texture.
How to Serve Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While the fresh chives add a lovely touch, you can also sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a little grated lemon zest to brighten the flavors even more. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving can take the buttery shine to the next level.
Side Dishes
Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe pairs beautifully with classic Italian dishes like pasta marinara, creamy Alfredo, or hearty lasagna. It’s also fantastic alongside soups such as tomato basil or minestrone, where its crunchy texture provides a satisfying contrast to silky broths.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner party, arrange slices of this garlic bread in a wicker basket lined with a colorful napkin. Want to get fancy? Top with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or a few sun-dried tomatoes before broiling for a gourmet upgrade that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, wrap the garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days, but the sooner you enjoy it, the better the texture and flavor will be.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe by wrapping it securely in foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead option for busy nights when you crave something quick and satisfying.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the bread and place it on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving, as that can make the bread soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While a baguette is traditional for Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe, a ciabatta or Italian loaf can work well too. Just be sure it’s fresh and sturdy enough to hold the butter mixture.
How can I make this recipe less spicy?
If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce or omit the crushed red chile flakes. The garlic and herbs will still deliver plenty of delicious taste without the heat.
Can I prepare the garlic butter in advance?
Yes! The garlic butter spread can be made a day or two ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before spreading on the bread for easy application.
Is it possible to make this vegan?
You can substitute the butter with a high-quality vegan spread and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavors might shift slightly, but you’ll still enjoy a fantastic garlic bread experience.
What if I don’t have a broiler?
If your oven lacks a broiler, you can bake the bread at 400°F (200°C) for 5 to 7 minutes until golden and crisp. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you try Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed garlic bread without it. It’s quick, straightforward, and packed with a perfect blend of bold flavors and textures that elevate any meal. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved staple for your family and friends. Happy baking!
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Carbone’s Garlic Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 8 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Carbone’s Garlic Bread is a quick and flavorful appetizer featuring a crisp baguette toasted under the broiler with a savory garlic butter spread, parmesan cheese, and a touch of red chile flakes for a mild kick. Garnished with fresh chives, this easy-to-make bread is perfect for serving alongside pasta or as a tasty snack.
Ingredients
Garlic Bread Ingredients
- 1 (12-oz) baguette, sliced lengthwise
- 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp crushed red chile flakes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed into a paste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- â…“ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped fresh chives
Instructions
- Preheat the Broiler: Set your oven broiler on HIGH to get it ready for toasting the bread.
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the baguette lengthwise and place the two halves cut side up on a foil-lined baking sheet for easy cleanup.
- Make the Garlic Butter Spread: In a bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, olive oil, crushed red chile flakes, dried oregano, smashed garlic paste, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly blended.
- Spread and Season: Evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the cut sides of the baguette halves, then sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese generously on top.
- Broil the Bread: Place the baking sheet under the hot broiler and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the bread is golden and slightly crisp. Watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven, sprinkle with finely chopped fresh chives, then cut into 2-inch slices. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Keep a close eye while broiling as garlic bread can burn quickly under high heat.
- For a more intense garlic flavor, let the garlic paste sit in the butter mixture for 15 minutes before spreading.
- You can substitute fresh oregano for dried if available, adjusting quantity to taste.
- To make it spicier, increase the crushed red chile flakes.
- Parmesan cheese adds a nice salty and savory touch; feel free to add more if desired.
