Garlic Bread Recipe

Prepare oven and loaf

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place an oven rack in the middle position. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the baguette in half lengthwise so you have two flat surfaces for topping. If you prefer pull-apart pieces, alternatively cut the loaf into 1-inch slices without cutting all the way through so the base holds together.

Make garlic butter

In a small heatproof bowl, combine the unsalted butter and olive oil. Microwave for 20–30 seconds or warm gently in a small pan until the butter is softened and pourable but not hot. Stir in the finely minced garlic, chopped parsley, kosher salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt if needed. If using grated Parmesan, stir it into the garlic butter now.

Assemble the bread

Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut surfaces of the bread halves (or into the cuts if making pull-apart slices). Make sure garlic is distributed across the surface to ensure even flavor.

Add mozzarella (optional)

If adding mozzarella, sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the garlic-buttered surface. Press lightly so cheese adheres. Optionally sprinkle the dried oregano and crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese for extra flavor.

Bake the prepared bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil for easy cleanup. For plain garlic bread (no mozzarella), bake 10–12 minutes until the butter soaks in and the edges are golden. For garlic bread with mozzarella, bake 10–14 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the edges of the bread are golden brown. For extra color, place under the broiler 1–2 minutes watching closely until nicely browned.

Remove from the oven and let rest 1–2 minutes. If baked as halves, cut into serving pieces. If made pull-apart style, separate pieces gently. Garnish with a little additional chopped parsley and a light dusting of grated Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.