Appetizers

Garlic Butter Toast

Name: Garlic Butter Toast
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 slices of bread; 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter; 4 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon of dried parsley; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

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Garlic butter toast is a simple, homey snack that smells amazing and tastes even better. The bread crisps at the edges and stays soft inside. The butter melts into the crumbs while garlic and parsley add bright, savory notes. This recipe is quick, comforting, and perfect any time you want a warm bite. For a heartier meal idea, try pairing it with a rich pasta like buttery steak tortellini.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Total Time: 15–17 minutes
Servings: 4 slices (4 servings)
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: ~190 kcal
Protein: ~3 g
Carbohydrates: ~14 g
Fat: ~13 g
Fiber: ~1 g
Sugar: ~2 g
Sodium: ~170 mg

Why Make This Garlic Butter Toast

Garlic butter toast is fast, tasty, and needs few ingredients. It makes a great side for soups and salads. It also works as an appetizer or quick snack. The garlic aroma fills the kitchen during baking. The crust turns golden and crisp while the center stays tender. This recipe is a handy way to lift plain bread into something special.

How to Make Garlic Butter Toast

This method uses the oven for even browning and an easy hands-off finish. You can adapt it to a toaster oven or skillet if needed. Use room-temperature butter so it mixes smoothly with the garlic. Mince the garlic fine for an even flavor without big raw bites. If you like a brighter herb note, add a little fresh parsley at the end.

Ingredients:

4 slices of bread
4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of dried parsley
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment for easy cleanup. Let the butter soften at room temperature if you can.

Step 2: Mixing

In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, salt, and pepper. Stir until the garlic and herbs are evenly distributed and the butter is smooth.

Step 3: Cooking

Spread the garlic butter mixture generously on one side of each slice of bread. Place the slices of bread on a baking sheet, buttered side up. Bake in the oven for about 10–12 minutes or until the edges are golden and crispy.

Step 4: Finishing

Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm. If you like, sprinkle a pinch of fresh parsley or a light grate of Parmesan before serving.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Toast

Serve warm as a side with soup, salad, pasta, or grilled vegetables. It pairs well with tomato soup and creamy pastas. For a party, cut each slice into smaller fingers and serve on a platter. Add grated cheese, roasted tomatoes, or sliced olives for a small twist just before serving.

How to Store Garlic Butter Toast

Room temperature: Keep in a covered container for up to 1 day; texture will soften.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Re-crisp in a hot oven for a few minutes.
Freezing: Freeze plain toasted slices (without toppings) in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen in a 350°F oven for 5–8 minutes.

Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Toast

Use room-temperature butter so it mixes smooth and spreads easily.
Mince garlic very fine or grate it to avoid big raw pieces.
For extra crispness, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.
If using a toaster oven, reduce the time slightly and check often.
Try mix-ins: a pinch of smoked paprika, a few drops of lemon juice, or finely grated Parmesan.
If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, sauté the minced garlic briefly in butter before mixing.

Delicious Variations

Cheesy Garlic Toast: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan before baking.
Herbed Butter Toast: Use fresh chopped parsley, basil, or oregano instead of dried parsley.
Lemon-Garlic Toast: Add a little lemon zest to the butter for brightness.
Spicy Garlic Toast: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Garlic-Roasted Tomato Toast: Top with halved roasted cherry tomatoes after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
A: Yes. Reduce or omit added salt. Taste the butter mix before spreading and adjust.

Q: Can I make this on a grill or skillet?
A: Yes. On a skillet, cook buttered side down over medium heat until golden. On a grill, toast buttered side up over indirect heat, watching so it does not burn.

Q: How can I avoid burnt garlic?
A: Do not sauté or bake at too high a temperature. Minced garlic spread in butter and baked at 350°F will mellow. If you are broiling, do it only briefly at the end.

Q: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
A: You can. Use about 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder for 4 cloves. Fresh garlic gives the best aroma and flavor, though.

Q: Is there a way to make this vegan?
A: Yes. Use a vegan butter instead of dairy butter. The texture and flavor will be similar.

Q: How do I reheat to keep it crispy?
A: Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or in a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving; it makes the bread soggy.

Q: Can I prepare the garlic butter ahead of time?
A: Yes. Make the garlic butter and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let it soften before spreading on the bread.

Conclusion

This garlic butter toast is quick, flavorful, and comforting. It makes a great side, snack, or appetizer. The warm, buttery bread with garlicky aroma is always a crowd-pleaser. For a slightly different take or more recipe inspiration, try this Toasted Garlic Bread Recipe. Enjoy making it — simple steps, big flavor.