Toasted Garlic Cheesy Bread Recipe

Soften butter and combine

Soften the unsalted butter to room temperature (about 20–30 minutes) or briefly microwave for 10–15 seconds until spreadable. Place softened butter in a medium bowl.

Add the extra-virgin olive oil to the butter and whisk briefly to combine. This helps keep the butter pliable and adds flavor.

Stir in the minced garlic, finely chopped parsley, dried oregano, grated Parmesan (2 tbs), salt, and black pepper until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt or garlic to preference. Set the garlic butter aside while preparing the bread.

Prepare the loaf

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. Using a serrated knife, slice the baguette in half lengthwise (so you have two long halves) or cut into 6–8 thick slices, keeping each slice intact at the bottom if you prefer pull-apart style. If you slice lengthwise, you’ll have top and bottom pieces for easy assembly.

Evenly spread the prepared garlic butter over the cut surfaces of the loaf (or on each slice). Be generous so the garlic flavor and moisture penetrate the bread.

Distribute the shredded mozzarella (about 2 cups) evenly over the buttered surface(s). If using optional provolone or cheddar, sprinkle it evenly as well for a mix of flavors. Finish with the grated Parmesan (0.25 cups) scattered over the top for a golden crust.

Sprinkle red pepper flakes lightly over the cheese if you want a mild heat.

Bake until bubbly and golden

Place the assembled bread on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 10–14 minutes, until the cheese is melted and begins to bubble. For a crispier top, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning, until the cheese is golden-brown in spots.

Remove the bread from the oven. Let it rest 2–3 minutes to set slightly. Garnish with the remaining chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Slice the loaf into serving pieces (if you baked whole), serve hot, and enjoy. Serve with a side of marinara sauce or extra grated Parmesan if desired.