Cooking garlic bread inside a foil bag yields a consistently moist and soft interior. This approach works by trapping the steam released from the bread and the melting butter mixture, which prevents the loaf from drying out during heating. The result is a tender, buttery bread fully saturated with garlic and herb flavors.
Prepping the Bread and Oven
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven warms, prepare the bread by slicing it almost all the way through, leaving the bottom crust intact to hold the loaf together. This creates pockets for the garlic-butter mixture to seep into the bread.
A generous layer of softened butter mixed with minced garlic and herbs is then spread into each cut and over the top surface of the loaf. Wrap the prepared bread tightly in heavy-duty aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet. This wrapping retains moisture and facilitates the steaming effect, keeping the bread soft.
Oven Cooking Time and Temperature
Garlic bread requires 15 to 20 minutes of baking time at 375°F (190°C). The foil bag allows the heat from the oven to melt the butter, which vaporizes slightly, creating steam. This steam circulates within the foil, warming the bread from the inside out and ensuring the interior remains tender and saturated with flavor.
The foil also prevents the garlic from burning, which can happen quickly when exposed to direct oven heat. For a crisp crust, carefully open and peel back the foil for the final two to three minutes of cooking. This brief exposure allows the surface to lightly toast and develop a golden-brown color.
Checking for Doneness and Serving
After the initial cooking time, the bread should be checked to ensure it is fully heated through and the butter is completely melted. The foil can be carefully opened, and the bread should feel soft to the touch and be steaming slightly, indicating sufficient internal temperature. The aroma of warm garlic and butter should be strong and noticeable.
Once removed from the oven, the bread should be served immediately to enjoy the soft texture and intense flavor. Slicing the loaf completely through while it is still warm allows the remaining melted butter to coat the cut edges. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese can be added for a bright finish.