Garlic Bread: Keto-Friendly Or Carb-Loaded Treat?

Garlic bread is a staple side dish, especially when serving Italian food. But is it possible to make it keto-friendly? The answer is yes! Keto garlic bread is a low-carb, gluten-free alternative to traditional garlic bread, and it is surprisingly easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and less than 20 minutes in the oven, you can enjoy a warm, cheesy, and garlicky side dish that is sure to impress.

Keto garlic bread ingredients

Keto garlic bread is a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional garlic bread. The recipe is simple and easy to make, with most versions requiring only a handful of ingredients. Here is a detailed list of the common ingredients used in keto garlic bread:

Almond Flour:

The base of keto garlic bread is typically almond flour. It is important to use blanched almond flour, which has a lighter texture and flavor compared to almond meal. This flour substitute helps create a bread-like texture while keeping the recipe keto-friendly.

Mozzarella Cheese:

Shredded mozzarella cheese is a key ingredient in keto garlic bread. It provides structure, stretch, and that classic cheesy flavor. You can use pre-shredded mozzarella or shred a block of cheese yourself.

Parmesan Cheese:

Finely grated parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory kick to the bread. It is best to use grated parmesan instead of coarsely shredded for a smoother texture.

Eggs:

Eggs act as a binding agent in keto garlic bread, holding all the ingredients together. It is recommended to use large eggs for the best results.

Butter:

Butter is used in two ways in keto garlic bread. First, it is melted and mixed with minced garlic and herbs to brush over the bread for added flavor. Second, some recipes use softened or melted butter to grease the baking dish.

Minced Garlic:

Freshly minced garlic is a must for keto garlic bread. It provides the signature garlic flavor and can be mixed with butter and herbs to brush on top of the bread.

Herbs and Seasonings:

Italian herbs, such as parsley, basil, or oregano, are commonly added to keto garlic bread for extra flavor. Additionally, garlic powder or Italian seasoning can be used to enhance the garlicky goodness.

Greek Yogurt or Cream Cheese:

Some keto garlic bread recipes call for Greek yogurt or cream cheese, which adds creaminess and helps bind the ingredients together. Sour cream can also be used as a substitute.

With these ingredients, you can create a delicious and addictive keto-friendly garlic bread that can be served as a side or appetizer.

How to make keto garlic bread

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup almond flour (or coconut flour)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (or 1 clove of garlic, minced)
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt (or sour cream or cream cheese)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
• 2 tablespoons Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg

Method

Preheat your oven to 350°F/180°C and line a large baking tray with parchment paper.

In a large mixing bowl, add your almond flour and garlic powder. Set aside.

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine your shredded mozzarella cheese and Greek yogurt. Microwave for 1 minute, or until the cheese has melted. Whisk together with the yogurt until combined.

Add the melted cheese mixture into the dry mixture. Add the egg and mix well, until combined and a thin dough remains.

Transfer the dough onto the lined tray and use a spoon to flatten out into an oval shape.

In a small bowl, whisk together your melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian herbs. Using a pastry brush, brush the topping over the dough.

Bake the garlic bread for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.

Remove from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before sprinkling with parmesan cheese.

Tips

• You can also use a stove-top to melt the cheese instead of a microwave.
• Work quickly when adding the cheese to the flour. The longer the cheese cools, the harder it will be to mix.
• You can add extra spices or herbs into the dough instead of just sprinkling on top.
• This bread goes well with pizza, salad, or protein such as salmon or chicken tenders.
• Leftover garlic bread can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 6 months.
• To reheat, microwave for 30 seconds or heat in the oven at 350°F/180°C for 10 minutes.

Keto garlic bread cooking methods

Using Keto Bread Mix

This method uses a keto bread mix to create a dough that is then shaped into a loaf and baked. The bread is then sliced and topped with a garlic butter mixture before being broiled until the butter melts and the edges of the bread are toasted.

Almond Flour Dough

This method involves creating a dough from almond flour, parmesan, baking soda, and garlic powder. The mozzarella and cream cheese are melted in the microwave, then combined with the dry ingredients and an egg. The dough is then pressed into a greased baking sheet and baked until puffed and golden brown. The top of the hot bread is brushed with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and parsley before being sliced and served.

Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese Base

This method involves combining shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, and seasoning, spreading the mixture thinly on a lined baking sheet, and baking it for 15 minutes. The oven is then switched to broil for a few minutes until the cheese is golden brown.

Microwavable Dough

This method uses a dough made from almond flour, garlic powder, mozzarella cheese, Greek yogurt, butter, minced garlic, Italian herbs, and parmesan cheese. The dry ingredients are combined in a mixing bowl, while the mozzarella and Greek yogurt are melted in the microwave. The melted cheese mixture is then added to the dry ingredients along with an egg to form a dough. The dough is transferred to a baking sheet and baked for 15 minutes. The top of the bread is brushed with a mixture of melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian herbs before being baked for an additional 2 minutes and then sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Keto garlic bread toppings

There are many keto-friendly toppings that you can add to your garlic bread to make it even more delicious. Here are some ideas:

Herbs and Spices

Fresh or dried herbs such as parsley, rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning can add a boost of flavour to your garlic bread. You can also add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Cheese

Parmesan cheese is a classic topping for garlic bread, but you can also try mozzarella, blue cheese, feta, or any other keto-friendly cheese that you enjoy.

Caramelised Onions, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, or Artichoke Hearts

These toppings will add a burst of flavour and a nice texture to your garlic bread.

Bacon Bits

Adding some cooked bacon bits to your garlic bread can give it a smoky, savoury flavour.

Garlic Butter Sauce

A garlic butter sauce made with minced garlic, chopped parsley, and browned butter can take your garlic bread to the next level. Brush it on top of the bread before baking or use it as a dipping sauce.

Feel free to get creative and experiment with different combinations of toppings to find your favourite flavour profiles. Enjoy your keto garlic bread!

Keto garlic bread serving suggestions

Keto garlic bread is a delicious, low-carb alternative to traditional garlic bread. It can be served as an appetizer, a snack, or a side dish, and is perfect for those following a keto diet or simply looking for a tasty, bread-based treat. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your keto garlic bread and impress your guests or satisfy your cravings!

Pizza

Pair your keto garlic bread with a keto pizza for the ultimate Italian feast! Some popular keto pizza options include calzones, chaffle pizzas, or zucchini pizza bites. You can also use the garlic bread as a pizza base for a unique twist.

Salads

Keto garlic bread goes well with various salads, such as a low-carb Greek salad, broccoli salad, or egg salad. It adds a tasty, crunchy element to your meal and helps to satisfy those bread cravings.

Proteins

For a more substantial meal, serve your keto garlic bread with proteins such as sweet chili salmon, pan-seared salmon, or chicken tenders. It's a great way to round out your meal and make it more filling and satisfying.

Soups

Keto garlic bread is the perfect companion to a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Try it with keto-friendly options like Zuppa Toscana soup, Italian sausage kale soup, or marinated artichoke salad. Dip your bread into the soup for a cozy and indulgent experience.

Pasta

While traditional pasta may not be keto-friendly, there are plenty of keto pasta alternatives that you can enjoy with your garlic bread. Try it with keto lasagna, spaghetti squash alfredo, or cauliflower baked ziti for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Appetizers and Snacks

Keto garlic bread can be a tasty appetizer or snack on its own. Serve it as a warm, chewy treat alongside your favorite low-carb dipping sauce. You can also chop it up and use it as croutons in your salad or soup.

With these serving suggestions, you can enjoy keto garlic bread in a variety of ways and create delicious, satisfying meals that fit your dietary preferences.

Frequently asked questions