Imagine golden, crispy edges, a delightfully tangy interior, and the irresistible aroma of homemade garlic herb butter. This isn’t just toast; it’s a culinary experience ready in a mere 10 minutes! Sourdough garlic toast is the ultimate versatile companion, perfect for elevating soups, pasta dishes, or simply enjoying as a satisfying snack. Get ready to transform a humble loaf of sourdough into something truly extraordinary.

About This Sourdough Garlic Toast

The sourdough baking craze that swept the nation a few years ago might have simmered down for some, but the love for that perfectly tangy, chewy bread remains. Many of us, myself included, jumped on the sourdough bandwagon, only to realize the commitment involved in feeding a starter and baking loaves every weekend, especially with a busy household.

While my dreams of becoming a full-time artisan baker might be on hold, my love for delicious sourdough creations is stronger than ever. That’s precisely why this sourdough garlic toast recipe is a game-changer. It allows you to savor the unique flavor and texture of sourdough without the extensive baking process. If you have a loaf of sourdough (store-bought or a rare homemade triumph!) and just 10 minutes to spare, you’re all set to create something truly magical.

This recipe transforms ordinary sourdough slices into a gourmet delight. The distinct tangy notes of the sourdough are amplified by the rich, aromatic homemade garlic herb butter, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Under the broiler, the bread achieves those coveted crispy golden edges while maintaining its wonderfully chewy interior. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes that is, quite frankly, over-the-top delicious.

Simply slather generous amounts of your freshly prepared (or quality store-bought) garlic herb butter onto each slice, then let your oven’s broiler work its quick magic. The simplicity of this method belies the incredible flavor you’ll achieve. It’s almost unbelievably easy for how utterly good it tastes.

Sourdough garlic toast has quickly become my absolute favorite side dish, pairing perfectly with everything from a comforting Sunday pasta feast to a quick weeknight soup. And here’s a little secret: sometimes I make an extra batch just to snack on while I’m cooking. When something is this quick, this easy, and this incredibly flavorful, there’s no reason not to indulge a little!

Ingredients for the Best Garlic Toast

Creating truly exceptional sourdough garlic toast requires just a few high-quality ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing the natural flavors to shine.

• Sourdough Bread: The star of our show! Whether you prefer to bake your own sourdough loaf from scratch using your trusty sourdough starter or opt for a high-quality artisanal loaf from your local bakery, choose a bread with a good, sturdy crust and a substantial crumb. If you are using freshly baked homemade sourdough, ensure it cools completely to room temperature (this usually takes 1 to 2 hours) before slicing. Slicing warm bread can lead to a gummy texture. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sourdough flavors, like rosemary or olive, for a unique twist on your toast!
• Garlic Herb Butter: This is where the magic happens! While store-bought garlic butter can work in a pinch, making your homemade garlic herb butter takes this toast to an entirely new level of deliciousness. The process is incredibly simple: just soften some good quality butter and vigorously mix it with finely minced fresh garlic and an assortment of vibrant fresh herbs. The blend of flavors from fresh herbs provides an unparalleled aromatic depth. If you’re short on time or only need a small amount, I’ve included a scaled-down version of the butter mixture recipe in the notes section of the recipe card below.

Using fresh, quality ingredients will make all the difference in achieving that irresistible flavor and texture that makes this sourdough garlic toast so special.

Essential Tools for Sourdough Garlic Toast

You don’t need a fancy kitchen setup to make this fantastic garlic toast. Just a few basic items will ensure perfect results every time:

• Half Sheet Baking Pan: A sturdy, rimmed baking sheet is essential for even toasting and catching any drips.
• Silicone Mat or Parchment Paper: Lining your baking pan prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. A silicone mat is reusable and eco-friendly, while parchment paper is convenient for one-time use.
• Bread Knife: A serrated bread knife is crucial for cleanly slicing your sourdough loaf without squishing it, ensuring even slices that toast beautifully.

With these simple tools, you’ll be well-equipped to create delicious sourdough garlic toast with minimal effort.

How to Make Sourdough Garlic Toast

Making crispy sourdough garlic toast is incredibly straightforward. Follow these two simple steps for golden perfection:

Step 1: Prepare the Spread

Once you have your sourdough slices ready, generously spread an equal amount of the flavorful garlic herb butter onto one side of each slice. Ensure an even coating from edge to edge to guarantee maximum flavor and optimal crispiness. Arrange the buttered sourdough slices on your baking sheet, which should be lined with either a silicone mat or parchment paper. Make sure the buttered side is facing up, ready for its transformation under the broiler.

Step 2: Toast to Perfection

Carefully place the baking sheet into your oven, which should be set to broil. Broiling is a high-heat method that quickly toasts the bread, giving it that desirable golden-brown color and crispy texture. Keep a very close eye on the toast during this stage – typically, it will take anywhere from 3 to 5 minutes to reach perfection. Broilers can be incredibly powerful and fast, so what’s perfectly toasted one moment can become burnt the next. Watch it continuously to prevent burning. Once beautifully golden and fragrant, remove the toast from the oven.

Serve your sourdough garlic toast immediately while it’s still warm and wonderfully crispy. Enjoy!

Expert Tips and Tricks for Garlic Toast

To ensure your sourdough garlic toast turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips and tricks in mind:

• Avoid Freshly Baked Sourdough (for this recipe): If you’ve baked your own sourdough, it’s crucial to let it cool completely before slicing and using it for toast. Cutting into warm bread too soon can result in a gummy texture and prevents the bread from fully setting. Allow at least 1-2 hours for cooling.
• Consider a Toaster Oven for Convenience: Don’t want to heat up your whole oven? A toaster oven is an excellent alternative! Set it to 450˚F (230˚C) and toast the buttered slices for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until they achieve that perfect golden-brown hue. Just like with a conventional broiler, keep a watchful eye on them to prevent burning, as toaster ovens can also cook quickly.
• Always Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs can be used in a pinch, fresh herbs are truly what elevate the flavor of the garlic herb butter. They provide a vibrant, aromatic freshness that dried herbs simply can’t replicate. Experiment with parsley, basil, chives, oregano, or a mix of your favorites for the best results.
• Even Butter Distribution: Ensure you spread the garlic herb butter evenly across each slice. This guarantees consistent browning and flavor in every bite.
• Preheat Your Broiler: Give your broiler a few minutes to preheat before placing the bread in. A hot broiler will cook the toast more efficiently and achieve a better crisp.
• Adjust Broiler Rack Position: For optimal results, place your baking sheet on the rack that is about 4-6 inches away from the broiler element. This allows for even browning without burning too quickly.

More tasty bread recipes to explore: No Knead Overnight Bread | Harvest Pumpkin Seed Bread | No Yeast White Bread | Bacon Parmesan Quick Bread

Sourdough: A Match Made in Heaven for Toast?

Absolutely! Sourdough isn’t just good for toast; it’s arguably one of the best breads for it. Its unique characteristics make it stand out:

• Robust Flavor: The inherent tanginess of sourdough beautifully complements the rich, savory notes of garlic and herbs. This creates a more complex and satisfying flavor profile than what you’d get from a plain white bread.
• Perfect Texture: Sourdough often boasts a thick, crusty exterior and a chewy, airy interior. This combination is ideal for toasting, providing a satisfying crunch on the outside while remaining tender within. It holds up exceptionally well to toppings, making it perfect for anything from this garlic toast to avocado toast or simply buttered toast.
• Structural Integrity: The sturdy nature of sourdough slices means they won’t wilt or become soggy when slathered with butter or loaded with other ingredients. You can pile on your favorite toppings without worry!

So, whether you’re crafting this delicious garlic toast or exploring other toast creations, sourdough is always an excellent choice for a superior toasted experience.

Homemade vs. Store-Bought Garlic Herb Butter

While convenience often leads us to store-bought options, when it comes to garlic herb butter, going homemade truly makes a noticeable difference. The fresh, vibrant flavors are unparalleled.

If you prefer not to make a full batch of garlic herb butter from scratch, you can easily scale down the recipe to make enough for a few slices of toast. Simply combine the following in a small bowl:

• 3 Tablespoons softened salted butter (If using unsalted butter, add a tiny pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors.)
• 1 clove garlic, minced (For convenience, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder can be substituted, though fresh is always best!)
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh basil
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (You can also get creative and use other fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary, or a delightful combination.)

No fresh herbs on hand? Don’t fret! You can still create a fantastic, simple garlic butter by just mixing softened butter with minced fresh garlic. This version is still leagues above plain butter. While simply adding salted butter to your toast is an option for plain toast, you’ll definitely miss out on the incredible depth of flavor that fresh herbs and garlic provide. Taking those few extra minutes to whip up this flavorful butter is absolutely worth it for an unforgettable garlic toast experience!

Storing Your Garlic Herb Butter

If you happen to make a larger batch of garlic herb butter or have any leftovers, you can easily store it for future use. Simply transfer the unused butter into an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 1 week, ready to be used on your next batch of toast, vegetables, or proteins.

Can I Use Other Bread for Garlic Toast?

While sourdough is highly recommended for its unique tang and texture, you absolutely can use other types of bread for this garlic toast recipe if you prefer or if sourdough isn’t available. The key is to choose a crusty, artisanal bread that can stand up to the butter and broiling process.

In our experience, a good Italian country loaf works wonderfully. Its dense crumb and crispy crust toast beautifully, offering a delightful alternative. Other great options include:

• French Baguette: Sliced diagonally, a baguette makes charming, smaller garlic toasts, perfect for appetizers.
• Ciabatta: Its open, airy texture allows the butter to seep in, resulting in a moist and flavorful interior with a crispy crust.
• Artisan White Bread: A rustic white loaf with a good crust can also be a fantastic choice.

Avoid very soft, sandwich-style breads, as they tend to become too flimsy or dry out quickly under the broiler. The goal is a bread that offers both a satisfying chew and a crispy exterior when toasted. Experiment to find your favorite!

Need some inspiration for side dishes? Explore my comprehensive side dish recipes page for more delicious ideas!

What to Serve with Garlic Sourdough Bread

This crispy sourdough garlic toast is incredibly versatile and can elevate almost any meal. Its robust flavor and satisfying crunch make it an excellent accompaniment to a variety of dishes:

• Pasta Dishes: This is the most classic and perhaps most beloved pairing! The tangy garlic toast is perfect for soaking up rich pasta sauces. Try it with a quick and easy Pasta Napolitana or a fresh Penne Pomodoro for a classic weeknight meal. For something heartier, it pairs wonderfully with rich, slow-cooked sauces like Instant Pot Short Rib Ragu or a savory Instant Pot Bolognese.
• Soups and Stews: There’s nothing quite like dipping a piece of warm, garlicky toast into a steaming bowl of soup or a hearty stew. It adds texture and flavor that transforms a simple meal into something truly comforting.
• Salads: Serve it alongside a fresh green salad for added crunch and flavor. It can make a simple salad feel more substantial and satisfying.
• Steak or Roasted Meats: The sharp garlic and herb notes cut through the richness of grilled steak, roasted chicken, or lamb, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Eggs: For an elevated breakfast or brunch, serve a slice or two alongside scrambled eggs, omelets, or a poached egg with hollandaise sauce.
• Appetizer: Cut into smaller pieces, it makes a fantastic appetizer on its own or topped with bruschetta, tapenade, or a simple cheese spread.

No matter how you choose to serve it, this garlic sourdough bread is guaranteed to be a hit!

How to Store, Reheat, and Freeze Garlic Toast

Having leftover sourdough garlic toast is a rare but wonderful occurrence! Here’s how to properly store, reheat, and even freeze it to enjoy later:

• Store: To keep your leftover garlic toast fresh, store it in an airtight container, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, or place it in a resealable bag. When stored at room temperature on the countertop, it will maintain its quality for about 1 day. Beyond that, its crispness may diminish slightly.
• Reheat: The best way to revive leftover garlic toast is in the oven or a toaster oven. Place the slices on a baking tray and reheat them at 400˚F (200˚C) for approximately 1 to 2 minutes, or until they are warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the toast soft and chewy rather than crispy.
  
  Pro Tip: Transform a leftover slice into a quick and delicious mini-pizza! Top it with your favorite marinara sauce, a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese, and a dusting of Parmesan. Broil until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and gooey.
• Freeze: For longer storage, garlic toast freezes beautifully. Allow the toast to cool completely, then wrap each individual slice tightly in a layer of plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Once wrapped, place the slices in an airtight freezer container or a heavy-duty freezer-safe resealable bag. Frozen garlic toast can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply place the slices directly into a preheated oven or toaster oven at 400˚F (200˚C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until hot and crispy. No need to thaw!

With these storage tips, you can enjoy the delightful taste of sourdough garlic toast whenever the craving strikes!

More Irresistible Garlicky Recipes to Try

If you’re a fan of garlic, you’ll love these other recipes that celebrate its incredible flavor:

• This Garlic Aioli is incredibly quick to make, ready in just 5 minutes, and pairs perfectly with almost anything! Use it as a dip for crispy fries, a flavorful spread for sandwiches and burgers, or drizzle it over roasted vegetables for an extra kick.
• For a convenient way to get that deep, sweet roasted garlic flavor, try Air Fryer Roasted Garlic. This shortcut recipe is fantastic for infusing aioli, compound butters, or your favorite pasta dishes with rich garlic essence without the long oven time.
• Our Baked Lemon Garlic Salmon recipe is a testament to simple elegance. It’s easy to prep and baked in foil, which not only locks in all the wonderful flavors but also makes cleanup an absolute breeze.

These garlicky delights are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen!

Finally, if you whip up this fantastic sourdough garlic toast recipe, please make sure to share your experience by giving this recipe a star rating on the recipe card below and/or leaving a comment! I absolutely adore hearing about your culinary successes and genuinely take the time to respond to every single comment. Your feedback is incredibly valuable.

Don’t hesitate to drop any questions you might have in the comments section as well!

Oh, and please do remember to tag me on Instagram, Facebook, or Pinterest if you make the recipe! Seeing these delicious creations come to life in your homes is one of my favorite parts of blogging – it truly means the world to me and fills me with joy to see your culinary artistry.

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