There’s something utterly delightful about blending two beloved dishes into one irresistible creation. With this Spaghetti Garlic Bread, I’ve found the perfect solution for those evenings when you crave comfort but want to keep it simple. Imagine golden-brown garlic bread topped with lush, garlicky spaghetti—each bite is a taste of Italy right at home!
This dish is not just easy to whip up; it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave your family or guests raving. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a unique appetizer for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. Plus, with enticing variations like Pizza Spaghetti Garlic Bread and Pesto versions, there’s a playful twist for every palate. Get ready to dive into a flavor explosion that transforms your dining experience into something truly special!
Why is Spaghetti Garlic Bread a Must-Try?
Elevated Dining: This dish combines the best of two beloved meals—garlic bread and spaghetti—creating a unique experience that’s hard to resist.
Effortless Preparation: With just a handful of simple ingredients and quick steps, you can impress family and friends in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for gatherings, this recipe transforms any meal into a celebration, guaranteed to be a hit among guests.
Versatile Variations: From Pizza Spaghetti Garlic Bread to a fresh Pesto version, this recipe easily adapts to suit your cravings.
Flavor Explosion: Creamy, garlicky cheese and pasta paired with crispy bread creates an unforgettable taste sensation!
Spaghetti Garlic Bread Ingredients
For the Spaghetti
• Spaghetti – The heart of the dish; any pasta variety will work wonders!
• Water – Essential for boiling; remember to salt well for flavorful pasta.
• Salt – Enhances taste; adjust according to your preference.
• Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing garlic, giving the dish a rich flavor.
• Garlic – The star ingredient; fresh is preferred, but powdered can stand in.
• Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Adds a hint of heat; leave out for a milder taste.
• Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish with freshness; basil is a lovely substitute.
• Parmesan Cheese – Infuses creaminess and umami; sprinkle more on top for indulgence.
For the Garlic Bread
• Italian Bread – A sturdy loaf needed for spreading; the length-wise slice is key.
• Unsalted Butter – The base for the garlic spread; margarine can be used as an alternative.
• Garlic (for garlic spread) – Boosts the garlic flavor; fresh works best.
• Garlic Powder (optional) – For an extra garlic kick; use it if you love that flavor.
Experience the delightful combination of Spaghetti Garlic Bread and enjoy every flavorful bite!
How to Make Spaghetti Garlic Bread
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Boil Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot. This will ensure your spaghetti cooks evenly and absorbs all the wonderful saltiness.
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Cook Add your spaghetti to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Before draining, remember to reserve 1 cup of pasta water—it will help adjust your sauce later!
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Sauté In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Enjoy that heavenly aroma wafting through your kitchen!
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Toss Once the spaghetti is drained, introduce it to the garlic sauté in the skillet. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. The goal is a seamless blend of flavors!
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Mix Stir in chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, seasoning to taste. This elevates your spaghetti with a touch of freshness—absolutely delicious!
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Prepare For the garlic spread, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Mix until well blended for that rich, garlicky goodness.
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Slice Take the Italian bread and slice it lengthwise. Spread your delightful garlic butter generously on both cut sides.
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Bake Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the bread on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the bread turns golden and crispy.
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Broil For an extra crispy finish, switch to broil and keep an eye on the bread for an additional 1-2 minutes. You want to achieve golden perfection!
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Serve Plate the spaghetti and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley. Pair it with your garlic bread, and watch everyone enjoy this comforting dish.
Optional: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Spaghetti Garlic Bread
Room Temperature: Store the garlic bread at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating to maintain freshness. Ensure it’s covered with a clean kitchen towel.
Fridge: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain the flavors of your Spaghetti Garlic Bread.
Freezer: For longer storage, place the garlic bread in a freezer-safe bag or container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your Spaghetti Garlic Bread again, reheat the bread in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to revive its crispy texture!
What to Serve with Spaghetti Garlic Bread?
Create the perfect meal experience by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides.
- Crispy Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the garlic bread. The crunchiness adds an enjoyable texture.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Enhancing your meal, garlic butter shrimp brings a succulent, savory flavor that complements the pasta beautifully. It’s a luxurious yet easy addition!
- Marinara Sauce: Serve a warm bowl of marinara sauce for dipping the garlic bread. The tangy flavor balances the buttery richness of the spread.
- Roasted Vegetables: Bright, seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection offer a healthy complement, adding color and nutrition to your plate. The earthy flavors work wonderfully with the dish.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil: A drizzle of herb-infused olive oil over your spaghetti creates an aromatic enhancement, taking each bite to another level of flavor. Don’t forget to scoop up extra with your garlic bread!
- Wine Pairing: A glass of crisp Pinot Grigio elevates your dining experience, perfectly pairing with the garlic and pasta flavors. It’s the ideal accompaniment for a cozy night in.
- Tiramisu: Finish your meal with a classic Italian dessert like tiramisu. The creamy coffee flavor provides a perfect sweet contrast to the savory spaghetti garlic bread.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: For an appetizer, stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs are an excellent start, intensifying the Italian theme and delighting the palate.
- Pesto Dipping Sauce: For a fun twist, serve a basil pesto alongside your garlic bread. The fresh taste of basil adds a vibrant touch and pairs well with the garlic’s warmth.
Spaghetti Garlic Bread Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and create your own version to satisfy your taste buds!
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Pizza Twist: Add your favorite pizza toppings like pepperoni or bell peppers into the spaghetti mix for a delightful spin. This hearty twist will take your meal from ordinary to extraordinary!
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Pesto Infusion: Swap out the marinara for a vibrant pesto sauce. This makes for a fresh, herbaceous flavor that dances on your palate. Pair it with a sprinkle of pine nuts for added crunch!
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Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to turn up the heat. If you love a fiery dish, this adjustment will definitely satisfy your cravings!
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Veggie Delight: Increase the veggie content by adding sautéed spinach or zucchini to the spaghetti. This not only gives a nutritional boost but also brings colorful vibrancy to your meal.
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Cheesy Variation: Experiment by mixing in different cheeses, such as mozzarella or ricotta, for a creamier texture. Every bite will be a gooey, cheesy dream!
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Herb Infusion: Swap parsley for fresh basil or oregano in the garlic spread for an aromatic twist. This will elevate the dish, making it feel even fresher!
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Garlic Lovers: For the ultimate garlic experience, double the amount of garlic in both the spaghetti and garlic spread. This rich, aromatic explosion is perfect for garlic enthusiasts!
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Vegan Version: Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and omit cheese for a delicious vegan-friendly meal. You won’t miss the dairy when flavor is this good!
Make Ahead Options
These Spaghetti Garlic Bread creations are perfect for busy weeknights when you need to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the spaghetti up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook and toss it with garlic oil, omitting the parsley and Parmesan until you’re ready to serve. Store the cooked spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the garlic bread, you can make the garlic spread ahead and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just bake the garlic bread and toss the spaghetti with fresh parsley and cheese before serving. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting dish with minimal last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Spaghetti Garlic Bread
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Reserve Pasta Water: Always save a cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. It helps adjust the sauce’s consistency for a perfect finish.
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Don’t Overcook Garlic: Sauté the garlic just until fragrant; browning it too much can lead to bitterness in the sauce, ruining your delicious Spaghetti Garlic Bread.
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Check Bread While Broiling: Keep a close eye on the garlic bread when broiling to avoid burning. It should be golden brown and perfectly crispy!
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Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to mix in vegetables or different cheeses. Adding ingredients like zucchini or mozzarella can elevate your Spaghetti Garlic Bread experience!
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Boil Enough Water: Use a large pot with plenty of salted water to ensure the spaghetti cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together.
Spaghetti Garlic Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of spaghetti should I use for Spaghetti Garlic Bread?
Absolutely! You can use any type of spaghetti or pasta that you like. While traditional spaghetti works perfectly, feel free to experiment with penne, fettuccine, or any other pasta varieties that catch your fancy!
How should I store leftover Spaghetti Garlic Bread?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation. This storage method helps retain the flavors, ensuring that it’s still delicious when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze Spaghetti Garlic Bread?
Very much! To freeze, wrap the cooled garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven for about 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C) for that crispy texture!
What is the best way to reheat Spaghetti Garlic Bread?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the garlic bread on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method prevents the bread from getting soggy, keeping that delightful crunch intact!
Can I make Spaghetti Garlic Bread vegan or gluten-free?
Absolutely! For a vegan option, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and omit the cheese, or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. If you’re considering gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and bread. Your Spaghetti Garlic Bread can accommodate various dietary needs without sacrificing taste!
How can I adjust the garlic flavor in my Spaghetti Garlic Bread?
If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic to both the spaghetti and the garlic spread! You can increase the fresh garlic or opt to include garlic powder for extra depth. Just be careful not to overcook the garlic as it can turn bitter!
Spaghetti Garlic Bread: The Ultimate Comfort Food Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring 4 quarts of salted water to a rolling boil in a large pot.
- Add your spaghetti to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and add minced garlic and red pepper flakes; sauté until fragrant.
- Combine the drained spaghetti with the garlic sauté in the skillet, adding reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Stir in chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese, seasoning to taste.
- For the garlic spread, mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, Parmesan, and a pinch of salt in a bowl.
- Slice the Italian bread lengthwise and generously spread the garlic butter on both sides.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the bread on a baking sheet for 10-12 minutes.
- For crispiness, switch to broil for an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Plate the spaghetti with extra Parmesan and parsley, and serve with garlic bread.