Sourdough Garlic Bread Recipe – 5 Easy Steps

Sourdough garlic bread is the perfect companion to any meal—crisp, warm, and loaded with rich garlic flavor. Whether served on its own or paired with a hearty bowl of soup or pasta, this sourdough garlic bread recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. With roasted garlic, a mix of fresh herbs, and parmesan cheese, every bite is guaranteed to be a burst of savory goodness. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You Will Love This Sourdough Garlic Bread

This sourdough garlic bread recipe is quick, flavorful, and a real crowd-pleaser. The star ingredient is, of course, the sourdough bread, which gives the bread a slightly tangy and chewy texture that perfectly complements the rich garlic herb butter. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or a gathering with friends. You can prepare it ahead of time, and it’s just as delicious when reheated. Whether you serve it with marinara sauce or alongside your favorite main dish, sourdough garlic bread is always a hit.

Ingredients for Sourdough Garlic Bread

• Sourdough Loaf: The base of this garlic bread, offering a tangy and chewy texture.
• Unsalted Butter: For making the garlic herb butter, which brings all the flavors together.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, roasted for a sweet, mellow flavor that infuses the bread.
• Garlic Powder: Adds an extra layer of garlicky goodness.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of basil, oregano, and parsley to enhance the flavor profile.
• Fresh Parsley: Offers a fresh, vibrant touch to the garlic butter.
• Parmesan Cheese: Nutty and savory, this cheese adds depth to the garlic butter.
• Flaky Sea Salt: A finishing touch to balance the flavors.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing some ingredients or have dietary restrictions, here are a few substitutions for this sourdough garlic bread recipe:
• Vegan Version: Replace the unsalted butter with vegan butter and the parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative for a fully plant-based garlic bread.
• Bread Variety: While sourdough is the best option for this recipe, French bread or ciabatta can also work if you prefer a different type of bread.
• Herb Substitutes: If you don’t have Italian seasoning, use equal parts dried basil, oregano, and parsley, or experiment with your own blend of fresh or dried herbs.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Sourdough Garlic Bread

1. Prepare the Oven and Bread
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the sourdough loaf into 1-inch thick slices, making sure not to cut all the way through the bottom. The loaf should still be intact at the base. Place the loaf on a parchment-lined or foil-lined baking sheet.
2. Roast the Garlic
   In a small ramekin, place the garlic cloves and optional red pepper flakes. Cover the garlic with olive oil and roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the garlic is fork-tender. Allow the garlic to cool completely before proceeding. Once cooled, remove the garlic from the oil, saving the oil for future use, and mash the cloves using a fork.
3. Make the Garlic Herb Butter
   In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the mashed garlic, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, parsley, and parmesan cheese. Add a pinch of flaky sea salt and mix thoroughly to create the garlic herb butter.
4. Spread the Garlic Butter on the Bread
   Using a small offset spatula or butter knife, generously spread the garlic herb butter mixture into the slits of the sourdough loaf. Ensure that each slice is well-coated with the flavorful butter.
5. Bake the Garlic Bread
   Wrap the loaf in foil and bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Afterward, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the top to become golden and crispy.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Sourdough Garlic Bread

• Slice the Bread Carefully: When slicing your sourdough loaf, be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom to keep the loaf intact. Use a sharp serrated knife for clean, even slices.
• Use Fresh Garlic: For the best flavor, always use fresh garlic cloves rather than pre-minced garlic. This ensures a more robust and natural taste.
• Customize the Cheese: While parmesan is the classic choice for this recipe, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or fontina for different flavor profiles.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the garlic bread up to 4 hours in advance. Wrap the prepared loaf tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Reheat Leftovers: If you have any leftover garlic bread, wrap it in foil and reheat it in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes until it’s warm and crispy.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This sourdough garlic bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Try serving it alongside a bowl of creamy mascarpone tomato sauce, a hearty soup, or a fresh salad. For a more indulgent twist, dip it into a rich marinara sauce or pesto. You can also customize the bread by adding extra toppings, such as mozzarella cheese for a cheesy garlic bread version or a sprinkle of chili flakes for some heat.

Storage Tips:
• Refrigeration: Leftover garlic bread can be stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days.
• Freezing: Although it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftover garlic bread for up to 1 month. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Reheat in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Seasonal Touch: A Perfect Winter Comfort Food

Sourdough garlic bread is the perfect comfort food for those chilly winter months. Its warm, buttery goodness makes it the ideal side dish for soups and stews. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal at home or hosting a family gathering, this bread is sure to be a favorite on the table.

Conclusion

Sourdough garlic bread is an easy-to-make, flavor-packed side dish that adds the perfect touch to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it with pasta, soup, or simply on its own, the combination of tangy sourdough, roasted garlic, and parmesan cheese makes it irresistible. This recipe is quick, versatile, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. By following the simple steps, you can create a warm, buttery, and garlicky delight that everyone will love. Don’t forget to customize it to your liking—add extra cheese, herbs, or even spice it up with red pepper flakes. No matter how you serve it, sourdough garlic bread will become your go-to side dish.

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