Name: Spaghetti Garlic Bread: Comforting Twist on a Classic Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz Spaghetti (The main ingredient); 2 tbsp Salt (For boiling water); 3 tbsp Olive Oil (For sautéing garlic); 4-5 cloves Garlic (Minced); 1-2 pinch Red Pepper Flakes (Optional); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated); 1 loaf Italian Bread (Can substitute with French bread); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Softened); 3 cloves Garlic Powder (Optional); 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground)

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In the midst of a busy weekday, there’s nothing quite like the aromatic allure of garlic wafting through the kitchen, beckoning us to dinner. This Spaghetti Garlic Bread takes the best of both worlds—comforting spaghetti and golden, crispy garlic bread—and brings them together in a delightful, vegetarian dish that’s oh-so-easy to make. Perfect for that last-minute gathering or a cozy night at home, this recipe offers a quick prep and a chance to impress, leaving less time fussing in the kitchen and more time enjoying each bite. Whether you savor it as an appetizer or make it the star of the meal, your taste buds will be in for a treat. Curious to explore the deliciousness that awaits with this comforting duo?

Why is Spaghetti Garlic Bread a Must-Try?

Comforting Fusion: This Spaghetti Garlic Bread combines two beloved dishes into one mouthwatering experience, ensuring satisfaction with every bite.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time—perfect for busy weeknights.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serving this dish at gatherings is guaranteed to impress friends and family, making it an instant favorite.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to tailor the recipe by adding veggies or experimenting with spices, just like in our Garlic Butter Shrimp or Mini Spaghetti Meatball recipes.
Aromatic Bliss: Imagine the scent of garlic and butter filling your kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere—who could resist?
Perfect for Leftovers: Enjoy this dish the next day! It reheats beautifully, maintaining its delightful flavors and textures.

Spaghetti Garlic Bread Ingredients

• Curious about what goes into this delicious dish?

For the Spaghetti

Spaghetti – The main ingredient that serves as the hearty base for this flavorful dish.
Salt – Enhances flavor; adjust to taste for the perfect balance.
Olive Oil – Adds richness and is essential for sautéing garlic; can be substituted with vegetable oil.
Garlic – The star flavor component; fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can be used for convenience.
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional spice addition to customize heat levels.
Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and an inviting pop of color; substitute with basil if desired.
Parmesan Cheese – Introduces creaminess and umami; consider using Pecorino for a different twist.

For the Garlic Bread

Italian Bread – Provides the perfect base for your garlic bread; French bread also works well.
Unsalted Butter – Essential for creating the creamy garlic spread; margarine can be a substitute.
Garlic Powder – An optional addition if you want an extra punch of garlic flavor.
Black Pepper – Use freshly ground for the best flavor to season your dish.

This Spaghetti Garlic Bread comes together seamlessly, delivering a delightful vegetarian experience that’s quick and satisfying!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Spaghetti Garlic Bread

Step 1: Boil the Spaghetti
In a large pot, bring 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Add 2 tablespoons of salt to enhance the flavor. Carefully drop in the spaghetti and cook it, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s firm to the bite but not hard. Once cooked, reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the spaghetti.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the spaghetti cooks, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add 4-5 cloves of minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and just golden. Be careful not to let it burn as it can turn bitter. This aromatic mixture will be the heart of your Spaghetti Garlic Bread.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
After draining the spaghetti, immediately toss it into the skillet with the sautéed garlic. Slowly add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Stir everything together for 2-3 minutes until the spaghetti is well coated with the garlicky oil mix, warming it up and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Herbs
Remove the skillet from the heat, and then stir in a generous handful of chopped fresh parsley and half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring the spaghetti is flavorful and inviting. The cheese will melt slightly, creating a creamy texture that enhances the Spaghetti Garlic Bread.

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Bread Spread
In a separate bowl, mix together 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter, another 3 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese until smooth. This garlic butter spread is essential for elevating your Italian bread into crispy, flavorful garlic bread that pairs perfectly with your spaghetti.

Step 6: Assemble the Garlic Bread
Slice your Italian bread lengthwise into two halves. Generously spread the garlic butter mixture over both cut sides of the bread, ensuring even coverage. Arrange the bread on a baking sheet, ready to bake. This step ensures each bite offers that delightful garlic flavor that complements the dish.

Step 7: Bake the Garlic Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the baking sheet with the garlic bread into the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on it; the bread should turn golden and crisp up nicely. You’ll know it’s done when you can see a beautiful, inviting golden color, releasing an irresistible aroma throughout your kitchen.

Step 8: Broil for Crispiness
If you like your garlic bread extra crisp, switch your oven to broil mode. Broil the bread for 1-2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. This quick step will give you that perfect crunchy texture on top, enhancing your Spaghetti Garlic Bread experience.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
Once both the spaghetti and garlic bread are ready, serve the spaghetti on individual plates, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese and parsley. Place the warm garlic bread on the side for a dining experience that brings comfort and delight. Your homemade Spaghetti Garlic Bread is now ready to be enjoyed—let the happy flavors take center stage!

What to Serve with Spaghetti Garlic Bread?

Indulge in a comforting meal that complements the rich flavors of garlicky spaghetti with delicious sides that elevate every bite.

Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad filled with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warm dish. The brightness of the salad helps cleanse the palate between bites.
Marinara Dipping Sauce: A side of warm marinara sauce for dipping your garlic bread adds a delightful zing and extra moisture. The tomato sauce pairs beautifully with the flavors of the spaghetti, enhancing every mouthful.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, offer a lovely textural contrast while adding vibrant colors to your plate. Their natural sweetness complements the savory garlic notes perfectly.
Cheesy Garlic Knots: Extend the garlic goodness with cheesy garlic knots that bring a pull-apart comfort to the meal. They add an extra layer of indulgence and are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Grilled Shrimp or Chicken: For those looking to add protein, grilled shrimp or chicken brings a succulent element to the meal, balancing the carb-rich pasta. The smokiness of the grill enhances the dish and creates a more rounded dining experience.
Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, complements the flavors of the spaghetti and garlic bread beautifully. The wine’s acidity cuts through the richness, creating a perfect pairing for your dinner.

How to Store and Freeze Spaghetti Garlic Bread

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, you can keep leftover spaghetti garlic bread at room temperature for up to 2 hours before it should be refrigerated.
Fridge: Store any leftover spaghetti garlic bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Ensure the bread is wrapped well to prevent it from getting stale.
Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the spaghetti garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just remember to label it with the date!
Reheating: To reheat, place the bread in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy. This will keep your spaghetti garlic bread tasting fresh and delightful!

Tips for the Best Spaghetti Garlic Bread

Perfectly Cooked Spaghetti: Ensure the spaghetti is cooked al dente; it should be firm yet tender. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture that detracts from your Spaghetti Garlic Bread.
Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness. If it turns dark brown, you’ll need to start again—burnt garlic can ruin the dish.
Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the level of red pepper flakes or add other spices to give your dish a personal touch. This makes your Spaghetti Garlic Bread distinct and delicious.
Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh parsley and garlic enhances the flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives. Real ingredients give your comfort food the taste it deserves.
Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat your Spaghetti Garlic Bread in the oven to maintain its crispy texture.

Variations & Substitutions for Spaghetti Garlic Bread

Feel free to get creative with this Spaghetti Garlic Bread recipe! Each variation adds a unique twist to delight your taste buds.

Pizza Spaghetti: Add your favorite pizza toppings, like pepperoni or olives, to the spaghetti mix for a fun, flavorful twist. Cheese lovers will rejoice as the classic combo gets reimagined!
Pesto Delight: Swap out the marinara sauce for fresh pesto. The vibrant flavors of basil and garlic in the pesto will elevate your dish to a whole new level of freshness.
Spicy Kick: For those who love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or drizzle some hot sauce over the finished dish. It’s a delightful way to turn up the flavor!
Veggie Loaded: Toss in your favorite vegetables such as spinach or zucchini into the spaghetti for an extra health boost. This makes the dish heartier while maintaining its vegetarian appeal.
Garlic Lover’s Dream: If you can’t get enough garlic, increase the minced garlic and add a sprinkle of garlic powder to the butter spread for an addictive bite. It’s aromatic and absolutely luscious!
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free spaghetti and bread to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. The flavors will still shine bright!
Herb Infusion: Replace parsley with fresh basil or oregano for a delightful twist. Experimenting with herbs will bring a unique flair to the flavor profile you love.

Feeling inspired? Check out our delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp or recreate classic favorites like Mini Spaghetti Meatball. Your family and friends will adore the variations as much as you adore the original!

Make Ahead Options

These Spaghetti Garlic Bread preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the spaghetti up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook it al dente, cool it quickly under cold water, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The garlic butter spread can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just remember to bring it to room temperature before using. When you’re ready to serve, toss the cold spaghetti with the sautéed garlic and heat it gently, then bake the garlic bread for that fresh-from-the-oven crispiness. This makes mealtime a breeze, ensuring your Spaghetti Garlic Bread is just as delicious as when made fresh!

Spaghetti Garlic Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of spaghetti should I use?
I recommend using traditional spaghetti for the best results, as it has the right texture to hold the sauce. However, you can also experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free varieties if you prefer.

How should I store leftovers?
To store leftover spaghetti garlic bread, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure the bread is wrapped well to prevent it from becoming stale. For longer storage, consider freezing it.

Can I freeze Spaghetti Garlic Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the spaghetti garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply transfer it to the fridge for a day to thaw, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

Why did my garlic bread burn while baking?
If your garlic bread burns, it’s essential to keep an eye on it while baking, especially during the broiling step. Broiling can quickly lead to burning if left unattended. I suggest checking it every minute during this phase to ensure it achieves that perfect golden-brown without going too far.

Can I use margarine instead of butter for the garlic spread?
Yes, margarine can be substituted for butter if you prefer or if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. Just make sure it is softened for easy mixing with the garlic and parsley.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, this Spaghetti Garlic Bread is entirely vegetarian, making it a great choice for those following a plant-based diet. Just ensure that any cheese you use is vegetarian-friendly.