Garlic bread, with its irresistible aroma and delightful combination of buttery, garlicky flavors, is a classic side dish that can take any meal to the next level. Whether you’re enjoying a comforting bowl of spaghetti Bolognese or indulging in a plate of chicken Parmesan, garlic bread adds that extra touch of deliciousness that makes every bite even more satisfying.
In this article, we’ll explore 15 mouthwatering meals that are simply amazing when paired with garlic bread. So, get ready to tantalize your taste buds and discover some fantastic culinary combinations!
Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that pairs perfectly with garlic bread. The combination of the rich, meaty sauce and the warm, buttery garlic bread is simply mouthwatering. The garlic bread adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish, making it even more satisfying.
To make the perfect spaghetti Bolognese with garlic bread, start by cooking the spaghetti according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the Bolognese sauce by browning ground beef or turkey in a pan with onions, garlic, and diced tomatoes. Season the sauce with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Once the spaghetti is cooked and drained, serve it with a generous ladle of the Bolognese sauce on top. Don’t forget to toast some slices of garlic bread and serve them alongside the pasta. The crispy, garlicky bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce and savoring every bite. Enjoy the comforting and delicious combination of spaghetti Bolognese and garlic bread!
Chicken Parmesan
Chicken Parmesan, also known as Chicken Parmigiana, is a classic Italian-American dish that combines breaded and fried chicken cutlets with marinara sauce and melted cheese. When served with garlic bread, it becomes an irresistible meal that satisfies both your cravings for a hearty main course and a side of warm, buttery goodness.
To make chicken Parmesan, start by pounding boneless, skinless chicken breasts to an even thickness. Dip each chicken breast in beaten eggs, then coat them with a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Fry the breaded chicken cutlets in a pan until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Next, pour marinara sauce over the cooked chicken cutlets and top them with shredded mozzarella cheese. Place the chicken under the broiler until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Meanwhile, toast some slices of garlic bread until they are golden and fragrant.
Serve the chicken Parmesan with the garlic bread on the side, allowing you to soak up the delicious flavors of the marinara sauce and enjoy the combination of crispy chicken, gooey cheese, and buttery garlic bread.
Grilled Steak
Grilled steak is a popular choice for meat lovers, and when paired with garlic bread, it takes the meal to a whole new level. The juicy and tender steak, combined with the savory garlic bread, creates a delicious and satisfying dining experience.
To prepare a mouthwatering grilled steak, start by selecting a high-quality cut of steak, such as ribeye or filet mignon. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and any additional spices or herbs of your choice. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and place the steak on the grates. Cook the steak for a few minutes on each side, depending on your desired level of doneness.
While the steak is grilling, toast some slices of garlic bread on the grill or in the oven until they are golden and crispy. Once the steak is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice the steak against the grain and serve it alongside the garlic bread. The combination of the juicy, flavorful steak and the aromatic garlic bread will leave your taste buds in awe.
Caesar Salad
Caesar salad is a classic and refreshing salad that makes a great accompaniment to many main dishes. When served with garlic bread, it adds a delightful crunch and complements the flavors of the salad perfectly.
To make a delicious Caesar salad, start by washing and drying a head of romaine lettuce. Tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper to create the creamy Caesar dressing.
Pour the dressing over the lettuce and toss until the leaves are evenly coated. Add croutons for an extra crunch and additional Parmesan cheese for added flavor. To complete the meal, toast some slices of garlic bread until they are golden and fragrant.
Serve the Caesar salad with the garlic bread on the side. The combination of the crisp, refreshing salad and the warm, garlicky bread creates a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Enjoy the satisfying and light combination of Caesar salad and garlic bread.
Note: You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp to the Caesar salad for a heartier meal option.
Tomato Soup
Tomato soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with garlic bread. The creamy and tangy soup, along with the warm and buttery garlic bread, creates a delightful combination that will warm your soul.
To make a delicious tomato soup, start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot until they become fragrant and translucent. Add canned crushed tomatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, and a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. Season the soup with salt, pepper, and dried basil or oregano for added flavor. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
While the soup is simmering, toast some slices of garlic bread until they are golden and crispy. Once the soup is ready, use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth. If desired, stir in a splash of heavy cream for a creamy texture.
Serve the tomato soup in bowls and garnish with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy each spoonful of the warm soup and dip the garlic bread into it for an extra burst of flavor and texture.
Shrimp Scampi
Shrimp scampi is a delicious and elegant seafood dish that is enhanced by the addition of garlic bread. The succulent shrimp, cooked in a garlic and butter sauce, pairs perfectly with the warm and crispy garlic bread.
To prepare shrimp scampi, start by melting butter in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan and cook them until they turn pink and opaque. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness.
While the shrimp is cooking, toast some slices of garlic bread until they are golden and aromatic. Once the shrimp are cooked, remove them from the heat and sprinkle them with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve the shrimp scampi on a plate and place the garlic bread alongside it. Take a bite of the succulent shrimp and savor the combination of flavors. The garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and absorbs the flavorful sauce, making each bite even more satisfying. Indulge in the deliciousness of shrimp scampi with garlic bread!
Note: Shrimp scampi can be served over pasta or rice for a more substantial meal, but don’t forget to have some garlic bread on the side!
Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is a creamy and indulgent pasta dish that becomes even more satisfying when served with garlic bread. The combination of tender chicken, rich Alfredo sauce, and buttery garlic bread creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
To make Chicken Alfredo, start by cooking pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken in a skillet until it is cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Slice the cooked chicken into strips.
In a separate saucepan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts. Toss the cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce and add the sliced chicken.
Toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and aromatic. Serve the Chicken Alfredo with the garlic bread on the side. The buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce and adding an extra burst of flavor to each bite. Enjoy the deliciousness of Chicken Alfredo and garlic bread!
Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan is a vegetarian delight that pairs wonderfully with garlic bread. The crispy breaded eggplant slices, topped with tomato sauce and melted cheese, create a delightful combination of flavors and textures when enjoyed with garlic bread.
To make Eggplant Parmesan, start by slicing an eggplant into thick rounds. Dip each slice in beaten eggs and then coat them in breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in a pan until they are golden brown and crispy.
In a separate saucepan, heat tomato sauce and season it with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Once the eggplant slices are cooked, place them in a baking dish and top each slice with a spoonful of tomato sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
While the Eggplant Parmesan is baking, toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and fragrant. Serve the Eggplant Parmesan with the garlic bread on the side. The combination of the crispy eggplant, gooey cheese, and garlicky bread creates a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy the deliciousness of Eggplant Parmesan with garlic bread!
Note: If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the breaded eggplant slices instead of frying them. Simply arrange the breaded slices on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven until they are crispy and golden.
Beef Stew
Beef stew is a hearty and comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with garlic bread. The tender chunks of beef, combined with vegetables and flavorful broth, create a satisfying meal that is even more enjoyable when accompanied by warm and buttery garlic bread.
To make a delicious beef stew, start by browning beef cubes in a pot with some oil until they are nicely seared. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until they become tender. Add minced garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant.
Return the beef to the pot and pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes. Season the stew with salt, pepper, and herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. Cover the pot and let the stew simmer on low heat for a couple of hours until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
While the beef stew is simmering, toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and crispy. Serve the beef stew in bowls and enjoy it alongside the garlic bread. The combination of the savory, rich stew and the aromatic garlic bread will warm your heart and please your taste buds.
Sausage and Peppers
Sausage and peppers is a delicious and flavorful dish that is elevated when served with garlic bread. The combination of juicy sausages, sweet bell peppers, and caramelized onions, accompanied by garlic bread, creates a mouthwatering experience.
To prepare sausage and peppers, start by slicing Italian sausages into thick pieces. In a skillet, cook the sausages over medium heat until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions until they become soft and slightly caramelized. Season the peppers and onions with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for added flavor. Return the cooked sausages to the skillet and toss them with the peppers and onions to combine.
While the sausage and peppers are cooking, toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and fragrant. Serve the sausage and peppers in a bowl or on a plate, and enjoy it alongside the garlic bread. The combination of the savory sausages, sweet peppers, and garlic bread creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Indulge in the deliciousness of sausage and peppers with garlic bread!
Note: You can use a variety of sausages for this dish, such as spicy Italian sausage or chicken sausage, depending on your preference.
Baked Ziti
Baked ziti is a delicious and comforting pasta dish that pairs wonderfully with garlic bread. The combination of ziti pasta, tomato sauce, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful and satisfying meal when enjoyed with warm and crispy garlic bread.
To make baked ziti, start by cooking ziti pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. In a separate saucepan, heat tomato sauce and season it with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and mix it with the tomato sauce.
Transfer the sauced pasta to a baking dish and sprinkle it with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese. You can also add other cheeses like Parmesan or ricotta for extra creaminess. Bake the ziti in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are slightly crispy.
While the baked ziti is in the oven, toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and fragrant. Serve the baked ziti with the garlic bread on the side. Dip the garlic bread into the cheesy goodness of the baked ziti and enjoy the wonderful combination of flavors and textures.
Chicken Marsala
Chicken Marsala is a flavorful and elegant dish that is enhanced when paired with garlic bread. The tender chicken cooked in a Marsala wine sauce, along with sautéed mushrooms, creates a delicious and sophisticated meal that is complemented by the warm and buttery garlic bread.
To prepare chicken Marsala, start by lightly dredging chicken breasts in flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In a skillet, melt butter and cook the chicken until it is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms until they become tender and golden. Add Marsala wine and chicken broth to the skillet and simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and let it simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
While the chicken Marsala is simmering, toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and aromatic. Serve the chicken Marsala on a plate and place the garlic bread alongside it. Dip the garlic bread into the savory Marsala sauce and enjoy it with each tender bite of chicken. The combination of the rich flavors of the dish and the garlicky bread is truly delightful.
Note: You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top of the chicken Marsala for added freshness and flavor.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and wholesome dish that pairs beautifully with garlic bread. The combination of vibrant bell peppers stuffed with a flavorful filling, topped with melted cheese, and enjoyed with warm garlic bread creates a delightful and satisfying meal.
To make stuffed bell peppers, start by cutting the tops off the bell peppers and removing the seeds and membranes. In a skillet, cook ground beef or turkey until it is browned. Add diced onions, garlic, and any other vegetables you like, such as diced tomatoes or corn. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices.
Fill each bell pepper with the meat and vegetable mixture and place them in a baking dish. Top each pepper with shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella. Bake the stuffed bell peppers in the oven until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
While the stuffed bell peppers are baking, toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and fragrant. Serve the stuffed bell peppers with the garlic bread on the side. The combination of the flavorful and juicy stuffed peppers with the warm and garlicky bread is truly satisfying. Enjoy the deliciousness of stuffed bell peppers and garlic bread!
Seafood Linguine
Seafood linguine is a delightful and flavorful pasta dish that is elevated when served with garlic bread. The combination of succulent seafood, aromatic herbs, and a rich sauce, enjoyed with warm and crispy garlic bread, creates a culinary experience that is sure to please seafood lovers.
To make seafood linguine, start by cooking linguine pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add a selection of seafood, such as shrimp, scallops, and mussels, and cook them until they are cooked through and tender.
Pour in white wine and seafood broth to the skillet and let it simmer for a few minutes to develop the flavors. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, such as parsley or basil. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss it in the seafood sauce until it is well coated.
While the seafood linguine is simmering, toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and aromatic. Serve the seafood linguine with the garlic bread on the side. The combination of the delicate seafood, flavorful linguine, and garlicky bread is a match made in culinary heaven. Indulge in the deliciousness of seafood linguine with garlic bread!
Note: You can customize the seafood selection to your preference and availability. Feel free to add other seafood options like lobster or clams for a more varied and decadent dish.
Baked Salmon
Baked salmon is a healthy and flavorful dish that is perfect when paired with garlic bread. The tender and flaky salmon, seasoned with herbs and spices, combined with the warm and buttery garlic bread, creates a delicious and nutritious meal.
To make baked salmon, start by preheating the oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the salmon fillets on the baking sheet and season them with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices, such as dill, lemon zest, or paprika.
Bake the salmon in the oven until it is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the fillets, but it typically takes around 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
While the salmon is baking, toast slices of garlic bread until they are golden and fragrant. Serve the baked salmon with the garlic bread on the side. The combination of the succulent salmon and the aromatic garlic bread creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.
You can also enhance the flavor of the baked salmon by serving it with a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of creamy dill sauce. The garlic bread serves as a perfect accompaniment, allowing you to savor every bite of the delicious salmon.
Enjoy the nutritious and delicious baked salmon with garlic bread, and savor the simplicity and goodness of this wholesome meal.
Final Thoughts
And there you have it, 15 amazing meals that are even more delightful with a side of garlic bread. From classic pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese and chicken Alfredo to flavorful options like grilled steak and seafood linguine, each meal brings its own unique flavors and textures that are enhanced when enjoyed alongside warm and buttery garlic bread.
Garlic bread has a way of elevating any dish it accompanies. Its crispy exterior and soft, buttery interior provide a delightful contrast to the flavors of the main course. Whether you’re dipping it into a creamy Alfredo sauce or savoring it alongside a hearty beef stew, garlic bread adds that extra touch of deliciousness that can take a meal from good to extraordinary.
So, the next time you’re preparing one of these meals, don’t forget to include a side of garlic bread. It’s an easy addition that will leave your taste buds craving for more. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, the combination of these dishes with garlic bread is sure to please everyone’s palate.
And remember, you don’t have to limit yourself to these specific meals. Feel free to experiment and pair garlic bread with your own favorite dishes. The versatility of garlic bread makes it a fantastic companion to a wide range of cuisines and flavors.
So, go ahead and enjoy the deliciousness of these meals with a side of garlic bread. Share the joy with your loved ones and savor the satisfying flavors that each combination brings. Bon appétit!
FAQ
Q: Can I use store-bought garlic bread for these meals?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought garlic bread can be a convenient and tasty option to accompany these meals. Look for garlic bread in the freezer section of your local grocery store. Simply follow the package instructions to bake or toast the garlic bread, and you’ll have a delicious side ready to enjoy with your meal. However, if you have a little extra time, making homemade garlic bread can be a rewarding experience and allow you to customize the flavors and ingredients to your liking.
Q: What are some variations I can try with garlic bread?
A: While classic garlic bread is already delicious on its own, there are plenty of variations you can try to add an extra twist to your meal. For example, you can sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or shredded mozzarella on top of the garlic bread before toasting it to create a cheesy delight. Another option is to mix chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano with the garlic butter for an herby burst of flavor. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as ciabatta or French baguette, to change the texture and taste of your garlic bread.
Q: Are there any alternatives to garlic bread?
A: If you’re looking for alternatives to garlic bread, there are a few options you can consider. One option is to serve your meals with plain bread or dinner rolls. While it won’t have the same garlicky flavor, you can still enjoy the convenience of a bread side. Another alternative is to make herb-infused butter and spread it on toasted bread. This will give you a similar aromatic experience as garlic bread. Additionally, you can try serving your meals with garlic-infused olive oil for dipping bread. Simply mix minced garlic with olive oil and let it sit for a while to infuse the flavors. It’s a lighter alternative that can still provide a hint of garlic goodness.
Q: Can I make garlic bread in advance?
A: Yes, you can make garlic bread in advance to save time when preparing your meals. If you’re using store-bought garlic bread, you can follow the package instructions for baking or toasting it, and then store it in an airtight container once it has cooled down. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the garlic bread in the oven or toaster until it is warmed through. If you’re making homemade garlic bread, you can prepare it ahead of time and freeze it. Wrap the bread tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and place it in the freezer. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the bread and reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its crispiness.
Q: Can I make garlic bread without butter?
A: Yes, if you prefer to avoid butter, you can still make delicious garlic bread using alternative ingredients. One option is to substitute butter with olive oil. Simply mix minced garlic with olive oil and brush it onto the bread slices before toasting them. This will give you a lighter and healthier version of garlic bread. Another option is to use a plant-based spread or margarine that suits your dietary preferences. Just make sure to choose a spread that has a good consistency for spreading and can withstand the heat of toasting or baking. With these alternatives, you can still enjoy the flavors and aroma of garlic bread without the use of butter.
Q: Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic for garlic bread?
A: Yes, you can use garlic powder as a substitute for fresh garlic when making garlic bread. Garlic powder provides a more concentrated flavor compared to fresh garlic, so you’ll need to use less of it. Start by mixing the desired amount of garlic powder with softened butter or oil, along with any other herbs or seasonings you like. Spread the mixture onto the bread slices and proceed to toast or bake the garlic bread as usual. Keep in mind that the flavor of garlic powder may be slightly different from fresh garlic, but it will still add a delicious garlicky taste to your bread.