Garlic Bread Recipe

Preheat and prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it.

Prepare the loaf

If using a whole baguette, slice it in half lengthwise. Alternatively, for pull-apart garlic bread, slice the loaf crosswise into 1-inch thick slices without cutting all the way through (leave the bottom crust intact).

Make garlic butter

In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil. Add the finely minced or grated garlic, chopped fresh parsley, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly combined. Taste and adjust salt or garlic as desired.

Apply spread

If loaf is halved lengthwise: use a spatula or butter knife to spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut surface(s). If using crosswise-sliced loaf: gently open each slice and spread about 1 teaspoon of the garlic butter into each gap, then smear some on the top crust as well.

Add cheese (optional)

If using Parmesan, sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the buttered surfaces. If using shredded mozzarella for a cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the top so it melts into the slices.

Bake

Place the prepared loaf on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, until the butter has melted and the edges are golden. If you added mozzarella and want a bubbly, browned top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes, watching closely so the cheese doesn't burn.

Finish

Remove the bread from the oven. If desired, sprinkle with extra chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Let rest 1–2 minutes so butter sets slightly.

Serve

Slice the loaf into serving pieces if you prepared a halved loaf, or separate the pre-sliced pieces. Serve warm.