This Garlic Bread Skillet is a delicious and easy-to-make variation of the classic garlic bread. The soft, fluffy dough is infused with a rich garlic butter mixture, then topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, oregano, and chili flakes for an extra kick. The skillet cooking method ensures that the bread gets crispy and golden on the outside while remaining tender and flavorful inside. It’s the perfect side dish or snack to complement any meal, especially pasta, salads, or soups. With its warm, savory aroma, this garlic bread will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (including resting and cooking time)
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 teaspoon yeast (3 grams)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (12 grams)
- 1 tablespoon butter (14 grams)
- ½ cup lukewarm milk (110 ml)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (120 grams)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (1.5 grams)
For the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- 2 teaspoons chopped garlic (6 grams)
- 1 tablespoon parsley (4 grams)
- 2 tablespoons butter (28 grams)
Toppings:
- Mozzarella cheese (as desired, approximately 1 cup or 100 grams)
- Oregano (to taste)
- Chili flakes (to taste)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Directions
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, mix the yeast, sugar, and lukewarm milk. Stir well and allow it to sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active.
- In another bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and softened butter to the dry ingredients. Knead for 5 minutes until a smooth dough forms.
- Cover the dough with a cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place for 60–90 minutes, or until it doubles in size.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture:
- In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped garlic, and parsley. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated. Set aside.
3. Roll the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out into a rectangular shape, about ½ inch thick.
- Spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly across the rolled dough. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, oregano, and chili flakes for an added kick.
- Fold the dough in half, sealing the edges. Allow it to rest for an additional 10 minutes before cooking.
4. Cook the Garlic Bread:
- Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat for 5 minutes. Once the skillet is hot, place the prepared dough inside. Cover the skillet and cook for 15–25 minutes, rotating the pan every few minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides.
- The dough should become golden brown and crispy on the outside while staying soft on the inside.
5. Finishing Touches:
- Once the garlic bread is cooked, brush the top with the remaining garlic butter mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for a crunchy finish.
6. Serve:
- Slice the garlic bread into pieces and serve warm. This dish is perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or salads.
Serving Suggestions
- With Pasta: Pair this garlic bread with your favorite pasta dish, such as spaghetti or lasagna, for a hearty meal.
- With Soups or Stews: Serve alongside a warm bowl of tomato soup or a comforting stew to add some crunch and flavor.
- As an Appetizer: This garlic bread is a great starter for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.
Cooking Tips
- Active Yeast: Make sure the yeast mixture becomes frothy before using it. If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may be expired or the milk may have been too hot.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley will give the garlic butter a vibrant, aromatic flavor.
- Control the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili flakes based on your preference for spice. You can also add red pepper flakes or even hot sauce for more heat.
Variations to Try
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as cheddar, parmesan, or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Options: Try adding other herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to the garlic butter mixture for extra depth.
- Stuffed Garlic Bread: You can stuff the garlic bread with sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or even pepperoni for a heartier option.
Nutritional Benefits
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic has antibacterial and antiviral benefits. It also helps in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Mozzarella Cheese: A good source of protein and calcium, mozzarella helps promote bone health.
- Olive Oil: High in monounsaturated fats, olive oil is heart-healthy and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Conclusion
This Garlic Bread Skillet is a must-try for anyone who loves savory, cheesy snacks. The warm, buttery dough paired with melted cheese and aromatic garlic creates a flavor profile that’s simply irresistible. Whether you’re having it as a side, appetizer, or snack, this garlic bread will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Give it a try today and enjoy a delicious, comforting treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use any cheese of your choice. Parmesan, gouda, or even a spicy cheese like pepper jack would work great.
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How do I store leftover garlic bread? Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or oven for the best texture.
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Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, you can use plant-based butter and cheese alternatives to make the garlic bread vegan-friendly.
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Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking.
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Can I freeze this garlic bread? Yes, you can freeze the dough or baked garlic bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.