While garlic bread is delicious, grilling it creates an excellent contrast of textures—a slightly charred, crispy exterior giving way to a soft, buttery interior infused with garlic.
This recipe keeps things simple with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time (even quicker if you use frozen garlic bread). Whether serving up Italian pasta, a backyard barbecue, or a weeknight dinner, this grilled garlic bread fits right in.
The beauty of making it on the grill isn’t just in the flavor—it’s also practical, allowing you to prepare your side dish alongside your main course without turning on the oven.
In about 15 minutes, you can transform a basic loaf of bread into a warm, delicious side.
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Grilled Garlic Bread
There’s something special about garlic bread from the grill – it develops a perfect crunch on the outside while staying soft and buttery inside. Using just a few pantry staples, you can transform regular bread into an irresistible side dish that pairs with anything from pasta to barbecue.
The best part? While your main course cooks, these slices develop a subtle flavor you can’t get from the oven. It’s simple, quick, and guaranteed to disappear fast from your table.
What You Need
French Or Italian Bread Loaf Cut Lengthwise (Or Frozen Garlic Bread)
Butter Softened
Garlic Minced
Fresh Parsley Chopped
Salt
Black Pepper
How to Make Grilled Garlic Bread
Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a medium bowl, combine one stick of softened butter with 4-6 minced garlic cloves, two tablespoons chopped parsley, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of black pepper until well mixed.
Prepare the Bread
For fresh bread: Cut a French or Italian loaf lengthwise to create two long halves.
For frozen bread: Remove directly from the freezer, no thawing is needed
Spread the Butter Mixture
For fresh bread: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly on both cut sides
For frozen bread: Use as is, or add extra cheese and fresh herbs if you want
Grill the Bread
Place fresh bread cut-side down on a preheated grill for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes.
For frozen bread: Cook for 3-4 minutes per side if the bread isn’t defrosted.
Watch carefully to prevent burning – the bread can go from perfect to charred quickly!
Finish and Serve
Remove from grill carefully, rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve while hot.
What Temperature to Grill at
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F. If needed, keep one side at a lower temperature for indirect heat. Grill for 4-5 minutes with the lid closed, then check. Grill for another 2-3 minutes until you see light grill marks and the edges are toasted golden brown.
How To Store Leftovers and Reheat
Fresh grilled garlic bread is best eaten immediately while warm. However, if you have leftovers:
For short-term storage (1-2 days): Let cool completely, then store at room temperature in an airtight container or zip-top bag.
For freezing, Wrap individual slices or portions tightly in foil, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
What to Serve with Grilled Garlic Bread
Grilled garlic bread isn’t just a side—it’s a game-changer! Cook it alongside your main dish on the grill for extra smoky flavor and a quick, easy addition to your meal. Here are some perfect pairings:
- Side Dishes for Steak – Grill your garlic bread at the same time as your steak for a complete, mouthwatering meal.
- Beef Burger – Toasted garlic bread makes a bold burger side or even a bun alternative!
- Texas-Style Smoked Brisket – Smoky, tender brisket and fresh-off-the-grill garlic bread are a match made in BBQ heaven.
- British Sausage Rolls – This is’nt a grilled option but we love the combo of the buttery, garlicky crunch with these flaky, meaty pastries. This perfect for a cookout!
Throw your garlic bread on the grill while your main dish cooks for a perfectly timed, flavor-packed meal! 🔥🥖
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Grilled Garlic Bread
Ingredients
- 1 French or Italian bread loaf cut lengthwise (or frozen garlic bread)
- 1/2 cup 1 stick butter, softened
- 4-6 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- If using fresh bread: Mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Spread this mixture evenly on both cut sides of the bread. If using frozen garlic bread: Take it straight from the freezer (no need to thaw).
- Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-375°F).
- For fresh bread: Place the bread cut-side down on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes. For frozen bread: Follow the package instructions but add about 3-4 minutes per side if the bread isnt defrosted
- Watch carefully to prevent burning – the bread can go from perfect to charred quickly!
- Remove from grill, let cool for a minute, then slice and serve hot.
- Pro tip: If using frozen bread, you can enhance it by adding extra cheese or fresh herbs just before grilling.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Author: Charlie Reeves
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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