Garlic Monkey Bread Recipe -

Introduction

Garlic Monkey Bread is the kind of recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Indeed,It’s a savory twist on the classic sweet monkey bread, combining the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and herbs into a pull-apart bread that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick side dish or a home cook wanting to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe is a perfect fit.

I first stumbled upon the idea of Garlic Monkey Bread while planning a family pasta night. Typically,We usually enjoy traditional garlic bread, but I wanted to try something different—something that would bring a little more excitement to the meal. That’s when I remembered the classic monkey bread, often served as a sweet dessert. By swapping out the sugar and cinnamon for garlic and Italian seasoning, I discovered a new favorite that quickly became a staple in our household.

This recipe is not only easy and accessible but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a snack for movie nights. Moreover, the best part is that it requires just a few simple ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. So, let’s dive into the recipe and see how you can bring this delicious Garlic Monkey Bread to your own table.

Section 1: Recipe Overview for Garlic Monkey Bread

Recipe Description

Garlic Monkey Bread is a delightful combination of soft, fluffy bread, coated in a rich garlic butter mixture and baked to golden perfection. As a result, it’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and has everyone eagerly waiting at the table. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even on busy weeknights. Whether you’re serving it as a side to your favorite pasta dish or as a standalone snack, this garlic-infused bread is sure to be a hit.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

What makes this recipe stand out is its simplicity. By using store-bought biscuit dough, you can quickly whip up this dish without the need for extensive baking skills or ingredients. Additionally, the bread pulls apart easily, making it fun to eat and perfect for sharing. Plus, the garlic butter mixture seeps into every nook and cranny, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

Key Recipe Details

Type: Appetizer / Side Dish
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Serves: 12-16

Section 2: Ingredients for Garlic Monkey Bread

List of Ingredients

To create this delicious Garlic Monkey Bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 (16.3 oz) containers of refrigerated biscuit dough: This is the base of your bread, providing a soft and fluffy texture that’s easy to work with.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted: Butter adds richness and helps to carry the garlic and herb flavors throughout the bread.
6 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key to giving the bread its strong, aromatic flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you can reduce the amount to 4 cloves.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme enhances the flavor of the garlic butter.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adding Parmesan gives the bread a slight cheesy flavor and adds a bit of crispiness to the top.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, earthy flavor to the finished bread.

Ingredient Notes

Butter: For a richer flavor, consider using European-style butter, which has a higher fat content. If you’re looking to reduce calories, you can substitute half of the butter with olive oil, though this will slightly alter the taste and texture.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is recommended for this recipe, as it provides the best flavor. However, if you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic from a jar can be used. Just keep in mind that it may be slightly less potent.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, you can make your own mix using equal parts of dried oregano, basil, and thyme. A pinch of rosemary or marjoram can also be added for extra depth.
Parmesan Cheese: While optional, the addition of Parmesan can elevate the dish by adding a savory, umami-rich layer. You can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Section 3: Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Monkey Bread

Preparing the Dough:

Preheat the Oven:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a Bundt pan or a regular baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This ensures that the bread will not stick to the pan and will come out easily after baking.
Prepare the Dough:
- Open the refrigerated biscuit dough containers and separate each biscuit. Tear each biscuit into quarters, creating small dough balls. If you’re using homemade dough, divide it into similar-sized pieces. This will ensure that the bread bakes evenly and pulls apart easily.
Prepare the Garlic Butter:
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir until well mixed. The butter mixture will act as the flavor base for the bread, infusing each piece with a rich, garlicky taste.

Making the Garlic Butter:

Infuse the Butter:
- Place the minced garlic and Italian seasoning in the melted butter. Stir well to make sure the garlic is evenly distributed. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. For a stronger garlic flavor, consider letting the butter infuse longer or using roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter taste.
Customize the Flavor:
- If you like, you can add additional herbs or spices to the butter mixture at this point. A pinch of red pepper flakes will add a slight kick, or a teaspoon of fresh thyme can add an earthy depth. If you’re adding cheese, mix in a portion of the grated Parmesan here, saving the rest to sprinkle on top later.

Assembling the Monkey Bread:

Coat the Dough Balls:
- Toss the dough balls into the garlic butter mixture, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. You can do this in batches to ensure even coverage. The more evenly the dough is coated, the more flavorful your bread will be.
Layer the Dough in the Pan:
- Arrange the coated dough balls in the prepared pan, layering them evenly. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle a bit of cheese between each layer of dough balls. This will create a cheesy, gooey interior as the bread bakes.
Add Final Touches:
- Once all the dough balls are in the pan, pour any remaining garlic butter over the top. This will create a golden, buttery crust as the bread bakes.

Baking Instructions:

1. Bake the Bread:
  - Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, you can cover it with foil halfway through baking.
2. Check for Doneness:
  - The bread should be puffed up and golden when done. If it looks undercooked, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the bread.
3. Cool and Serve:
  - Let the bread cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a serving plate. Serve warm for the best texture and flavor. The bread should pull apart easily, making it perfect for sharing.

Section 4: Serving Suggestions for Garlic Monkey Bread

Pairing Ideas:

Garlic Monkey Bread is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some pairing ideas to make the most of this savory treat:

Pasta Dishes: Serve Garlic Monkey Bread alongside classic pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese, fettuccine Alfredo, or a hearty lasagna. The bread’s rich garlic flavor complements the robust sauces typically found in these dishes.
Soups: Pair this bread with creamy soups like tomato bisque, broccoli cheddar, or potato leek soup. The bread’s soft, pull-apart texture makes it perfect for dipping into these comforting soups.
Salads: For a lighter option, serve the bread with a crisp Caesar salad or a Mediterranean-style salad with olives, feta, and a lemon vinaigrette. The garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor to any salad.
BBQ or Grilled Meats: Garlic Monkey Bread also pairs well with grilled meats such as BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, or steak. The bread’s buttery, garlicky notes complement the smoky, savory flavors of the meats.

Occasion Recommendations:

Garlic Monkey Bread is a crowd-pleaser that shines in various settings, making it an excellent choice for many occasions:

- Family Dinners: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a Sunday family gathering, Garlic Monkey Bread adds a special touch to the meal. It’s easy to make in large batches, so it’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
- Potlucks: This bread is a hit at potlucks or gatherings where you need to bring a dish to share. It’s easy to transport and can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Holiday Meals: Add this bread to your holiday spread for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Its rich, savory flavor pairs well with traditional holiday dishes like roasted turkey, ham, or stuffing.
- Casual Entertaining: If you’re hosting a casual get-together, serve Garlic Monkey Bread as an appetizer. It’s a great finger food that guests can enjoy while mingling.
- Movie Nights: For a fun and cozy night in, serve this bread as a snack during movie night. It’s easy to pull apart and eat while enjoying your favorite films.

Section 5: Tips and Variations for Your Garlic Monkey Bread

Tips and Variations:

Garlic Monkey Bread is a flexible recipe that can be easily adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some tips and variations to consider:

Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, mix shredded mozzarella or cheddar into the dough balls before baking. You can also sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a crispy, cheesy crust.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed chili flakes into the dough for an extra kick.
Herb Variations: While Italian seasoning is classic, feel free to experiment with other herbs. Fresh rosemary, thyme, or even basil can add a unique flavor to your bread.
Make it Sweet: For a sweet variation, omit the garlic and Italian seasoning. Instead, coat the dough balls in melted butter, cinnamon, and sugar before baking. This will give you a sweet monkey bread that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Vegan Option: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use vegan biscuit dough. You can also use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free biscuit dough or make your own using gluten-free flour. Ensure that all other ingredients, such as butter and seasonings, are also gluten-free.

Dietary Adjustments:

Low-Carb Version: For those following a low-carb diet, you can substitute the biscuit dough with a low-carb or keto-friendly dough recipe. While the texture will be different, the garlic butter will still provide a rich flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Use dairy-free butter alternatives and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute. The bread will still be delicious and full of garlic flavor.

Common Questions:

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough balls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before assembling and baking.

Can I freeze Garlic Monkey Bread?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled, unbaked bread. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

How do I reheat leftover Garlic Monkey Bread?

To reheat, place the bread in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for about 20-30 seconds, but this may make the bread a bit softer.

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated biscuits?

Yes, homemade dough works wonderfully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s a dough that rises well, such as pizza or bread dough. The baking time may vary slightly depending on the dough.

Section 6: Related Recipes for Garlic Monkey Bread

Links to Similar Recipes:

If you enjoyed making Garlic Monkey Bread, you might also love trying these other delicious bread and garlic-based recipes from the Tonya Recipes blog:

Quick and Easy Garlic Monkey Bread Recipe: This version of Garlic Monkey Bread is even faster, perfect for those weeknights when you need a quick side dish to complement your dinner.
Irresistible Mini Garlic Monkey Bread: A Simple Recipe: Looking for a bite-sized version? These mini garlic monkey breads are perfect for appetizers or snacking and are just as flavorful as the full-sized version.
Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread: If you’re a fan of gooey, cheesy goodness, this pull-apart bread is a must-try. It’s loaded with cheese and herbs, making it the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Herb-Infused Focaccia: For something a little different, this herb-infused focaccia bread is packed with flavor and has a wonderfully crispy crust. It’s ideal for sandwiches or as a side to soups and salads.
Classic Garlic Bread: Sometimes, you can’t beat the classics. This garlic bread recipe is simple, quick, and always a hit at the dinner table.

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Looking for more inspiration? Explore other sections of our blog to discover a variety of recipes, cooking tips, and meal planning guides:

Dinner Recipes: Find more delicious dinner ideas that are easy to make and guaranteed to please the whole family.
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Conclusion
Garlic Monkey Bread is more than just a side dish; in fact, it’s a comforting, flavorful treat that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for your family or, alternatively, hosting a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Its simplicity, combined with the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and herbs, makes it a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize it to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or the occasion, making it a truly adaptable dish. From adding cheese for a richer flavor to experimenting with different herbs or spices, there are endless ways to make this recipe your own.
I encourage you to give this Garlic Monkey Bread recipe a try and see how it can bring warmth and joy to your table. Don’t forget to explore other recipes on the blog, share your creations on social media, and leave a comment below to let us know how it turned out!