The number of calories in garlic bread can vary widely. However, on average, here’s what to expect:

Factors That Affect Calorie Content

1. Type of Bread Used

• White baguette or Italian bread adds more calories due to refined carbs.
• Whole wheat bread has slightly fewer calories and more fiber.
• Thick-sliced artisan breads may have higher density and caloric value.

2. Amount of Butter or Oil

• Butter is calorie-dense: 1 tbsp = ~100 calories
• Garlic bread is often brushed generously, adding up fast.

3. Cheese Toppings

• Adding cheese like mozzarella or parmesan increases fat, protein, and calories significantly.
• Cheesy garlic bread can range between 250–400 kcal per slice depending on thickness.

4. Homemade vs  Store-Bought vs. Restaurant

• Homemade versions give you control over ingredients.
• Store-bought frozen garlic bread usually ranges between 150–200 kcal per slice.
• Restaurant garlic bread often contains more butter, cheese, and oil—expect 300+ kcal per serving.

Popular Brands & Restaurant Calorie Estimates

Store-Bought Garlic Bread (per slice):

• Pepperidge Farm Garlic Bread: ~180–200 kcal
• Great Value Garlic Toast (Walmart): ~170 kcal
• Texas Toast (Frozen, Cheese): ~230–260 kcal

Restaurant Garlic Bread (per serving):

• Olive Garden Garlic Breadstick: ~140 kcal
• Domino’s Garlic Bread: ~130–150 kcal per piece
• Papa John’s Garlic Knots: ~150–170 kcal each
• Little Caesars Crazy Bread (with butter + cheese): ~130–160 kcal each

Calories in Homemade Garlic Bread

Here’s a basic breakdown for 1 homemade slice:

• Bread (1 thick slice): ~100 kcal
• Butter (1 tbsp): ~100 kcal
• Garlic (1 clove): ~5 kcal
• Olive oil (1 tsp): ~40 kcal
• Parsley/herbs: negligible

Total per slice (no cheese): ~245 kcal

Add cheese? That’s another 80–100+ kcal, depending on the amount.

How to Make Lower-Calorie Garlic Bread

Want to enjoy the flavor without all the calories? Try these tweaks:

Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter

• 1 tsp of olive oil = 40 kcal vs. 1 tbsp butter = 100 kcal
• A light brushing goes a long way.

Switch to Whole Wheat or Thin-Sliced Bread

• Reduces calories, increases fiber.

Bake, Don’t Fry

• Use the oven instead of pan-frying in oil or butter.

Skip the Cheese

• Cheese can double the calorie count of your garlic bread.

Try Garlic Bread “Chips”

• Thin slices baked until crisp with light seasoning and no added fat.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Average Slice)

Here’s what one medium slice (~70g) of classic garlic bread might contain:

• Calories: 220–300 kcal
• Carbs: 25–30g
• Fat: 10–18g
• Protein: 4–6g
• Sodium: 250–400mg

Is Garlic Bread Healthy?

It depends. On the plus side:

• Garlic has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits.
• Whole-grain bread adds fiber and nutrients.

But:

• Butter and cheese are high in saturated fats.
• It can be sodium-heavy.

Tip: Make it an occasional treat, or opt for lighter versions if you eat it regularly.

Final Thoughts

Garlic bread is undeniably delicious. Whether served with pasta, soup, or as a stand-alone snack, it can be a flavorful part of your diet. Just be mindful of portion sizes and preparation methods to keep the calorie count in check. Want a lighter recipe or keto-friendly version? Ask SPARKLE for a guilt-free garlic bread that doesn’t skimp on flavor!