Crispy Homemade Garlic Bread Toast
A zero-waste side dish that’s packed with garlicky goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Perfect for leftovers – Reuses day-old French bread with zero compromise on taste.
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Fast and flavorful – From kitchen to table in under 20 minutes.
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Crispy and creamy – Crunchy on the outside, rich and savory on top.
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Budget-friendly – Only a few pantry staples required.
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Versatile – Serve as a snack, appetizer, or side with pasta, barbecue, or salad.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Day-old French bread | 5 rolls (or any crusty bread) |
| Garlic cloves | 8 cloves (or to taste) |
| Mayonnaise | 200 g (about ¾ cup) |
| Dried oregano | 3 tablespoons (or parsley) |
Optional swaps: Use dried parsley, Italian seasoning, or a blend of herbs you like.
How to Make Homemade Garlic Bread Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Spread
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Peel 8 cloves of garlic and crush or grate them finely using a garlic press or microplane grater.
Love garlic? Use all 8 cloves. Prefer it milder? Start with 4–5 and adjust to taste.
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In a bowl, mix the crushed garlic into 200 g of mayonnaise.
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Add 3 tablespoons of dried oregano and stir until fully combined.
Want a brighter flavor? Mix in a little lemon zest or a pinch of chili flakes.
Step 2: Prep the Bread
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Cut the day-old French bread into slices approximately 1 inch thick.
You should get 4–5 slices per roll, depending on size.
Too thick = soggy center. Too thin = burns easily. Aim for medium slices for the perfect crunch.
Step 3: Line the Pan
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Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
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Line a large baking tray with parchment paper.
To keep it from curling, crumple the paper, flatten it out, or lightly dampen the tray first.
Step 4: Spread the Garlic Mixture
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Using a spoon or butter knife, spread a generous layer of the garlic mayo mixture on each bread slice.
Cover edge to edge for full flavor.
Don’t skimp! A thick layer ensures maximum flavor and browning.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
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Place the bread slices on the prepared tray, garlic side up.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 10–15 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the edges crisp.
Watch closely during the last few minutes—garlic can burn quickly.
Step 6: Serve and Store
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Let the toasts cool slightly before serving.
They’re delicious warm and aromatic, with a satisfying crunch.
Serving ideas:
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As a starter with dips (hummus, whipped feta, tomato bruschetta)
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Alongside pasta, grilled meats, or soups
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Crumbled over salads like giant croutons
To store:
Once completely cool, keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Toasts may lose some crispness over time but can be quickly reheated in a toaster oven or oven.
Variations to Try
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Cheesy Garlic Toast: Sprinkle grated Parmesan, mozzarella, or cheddar on top before baking.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika to the mayo mix.
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Fresh Herbs Finish: After baking, top with chopped fresh parsley or basil.
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Vegan Option: Use vegan mayo and garlic-infused olive oil instead.
⏱️ Quick Recipe Recap
| Step | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep time | 10 minutes |
| Bake time | 10–15 minutes |
| Total time | 20–25 minutes |
| Servings | 20–25 slices |
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Homemade Garlic Bread Toast is proof that even the simplest ingredients can become something truly delicious. With just a few pantry staples and that forgotten baguette from yesterday, you can create a snack or side dish that’s bursting with flavor, warmth, and crunch.
Try it once, and you’ll never throw away old bread again!
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