Garlic bread is a universally loved side dish, but figuring out what to serve with garlic bread can sometimes feel repetitive. While it’s a natural partner for pasta, this versatile side can complement a huge variety of meals. As a firefighter, I can tell you it was the go-to side for almost every big station dinner, no matter what we were cooking.
Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or planning a feast, here are 15 perfect pairings that will never let you down.
The Classic Pairings
- Spaghetti and Meatballs: The undisputed champion. Use the garlic bread to mop up every last bit of that delicious red sauce.
- Lasagna: A rich, cheesy lasagna needs a simple, crusty side to cut through the richness. Garlic bread is the perfect tool for the job.
- Chicken Alfredo: The creamy, cheesy sauce of a fettuccine alfredo is practically begging to be soaked up by a buttery piece of garlic bread.
- Tomato Soup: The ultimate comfort food combo. Dipping warm garlic bread into a creamy tomato soup is a game-changer.
- Caesar Salad: A big, crisp Caesar salad topped with grilled chicken becomes a complete and satisfying meal with a side of garlic bread.
Hearty and Comforting Meals
- Chili: A thick, hearty beef or bean chili served with a cheesy slice of garlic bread is a perfect meal for a cold night.
- French Onion Soup: Instead of a traditional crouton, serve a slice of garlic bread on the side for dipping into that savory, onion-packed broth.
- Shepherd’s Pie: While not traditional, a slice of garlic bread is a fantastic companion to this comforting meat-and-potato classic.
- Pot Roast: Use the garlic bread to soak up the rich, flavorful gravy from a slow-cooked pot roast.
Surprising & Creative Ideas
- Shrimp Scampi: The garlic and butter flavors in the scampi are perfectly mirrored in the bread, making them a natural fit.
- Steak Dinner: Instead of a baked potato, serve a thick slice of garlic bread alongside a perfectly cooked steak and some green beans.
- Mussels in White Wine Sauce: The bread is essential for soaking up the incredible garlic and white wine broth at the bottom of the bowl.
- As a Sandwich Base: Use two thick slices to make the ultimate grilled cheese or a meatball sub.
- On a Charcuterie Board: Lightly toasted slices of garlic bread are a fantastic, flavorful addition to any meat and cheese platter.
- With a Simple Marinara Dip: Sometimes, the best answer to what to serve with garlic bread is nothing at all. Just serve it hot from the oven with a small bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping. It’s the perfect appetizer.
No matter how you serve it, a great homemade version makes all the difference. For the ultimate recipe, check out our Gordon Ramsay Garlic Bread.
