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Ingredients
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Bread
Garlic-herb butter
Finish & optional
Method
Bread
- 1
Preheat & prepare loaf
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Using a serrated knife, slice the loaf into 5 equal pieces crosswise (if the loaf is long, cut into 5 thick slices about 1 to 1-1/2 inches each). If you prefer split-style garlic bread, halve each piece horizontally so you get 5 open-faced pieces.
Garlic-herb butter
- 2
Make garlic butter
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil/oregano, grated Parmesan, lemon zest (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly with a fork until smooth and well blended. Taste and adjust salt or garlic as desired.
- 3
Assemble & bake
- 4
Butter the bread
Place the 5 bread pieces cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil. Use a knife or small spatula to spread one portion of the garlic-herb butter evenly over the cut surface of each piece, covering to the edges. Lightly brush the exposed crust edges with a little olive oil to help browning.
- 5
Add cheese (optional)
If using mozzarella, sprinkle about 1–2 tablespoons shredded mozzarella onto each buttered piece (total ~1/2 cup). Sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes over each piece if you want some heat.
- 6
Bake
Bake in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 8–12 minutes, until the butter has melted and the crust is golden. If you added mozzarella and want it browned/bubbly, switch the oven to broil on high for the last 1–2 minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.
- 7
Finish & serve
Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let rest for 1–2 minutes. Optionally sprinkle a little extra chopped parsley and a light dusting of grated Parmesan. Serve warm. This yields 5 pieces.