Ciabatta Garlic Bread

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-27 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf ciabatta bread (about 12 oz / 340g)

• ½ cup (1 stick / 113g) unsalted butter, softened

• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced (about 1½ tbsp)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh)

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• ½ cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, grated (plus extra for topping)

Optional Additions:

• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

• 1 tsp lemon zest (for brightness)

• ¼ cup shredded mozzarella (for extra cheesiness)

---

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Bread

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Slice the ciabatta bread in half lengthwise (like a sandwich). If using individual rolls, slice them horizontally.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Spread

• In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well.

• For extra flavor, stir in Parmesan cheese (and optional mozzarella, if using).

3. Spread the Garlic Butter Mixture

• Generously spread the garlic butter mixture on both cut sides of the ciabatta.

• For extra crispiness, lightly toast the bread (butter-side up) for 2-3 minutes before adding toppings.

4. Bake Until Golden & Crispy

• Place the ciabatta on a baking sheet (butter-side up).

• Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy.

• For extra browning, broil for 1-2 minutes (watch closely to prevent burning).

5. Garnish & Serve

• Remove from the oven and sprinkle with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.

• Slice into pieces and serve warm.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 1 slice, approx. 80g):

---

Tips for the Best Ciabatta Garlic Bread:

✅ Use fresh garlic for the best flavor (avoid garlic powder if possible).
✅ Softened butter spreads easily without tearing the bread.
✅ Broil briefly for extra crispiness but watch closely to avoid burning.
✅ Add cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Asiago) for a melty, gooey texture.
✅ Serve immediately for the best texture—garlic bread gets soggy if left out.

---

Serving Suggestions:

🍝 Pasta Dishes – Perfect with spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine Alfredo.
🥗 Soups & Salads – Pairs well with tomato soup or Caesar salad.
🍕 Appetizer – Great as a side for pizza night!

---

Enjoy your homemade Ciabatta Garlic Bread—crispy, buttery, and packed with garlicky goodness! 🧄🍞🔥