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Ingredients
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Garlic Butter
Bread & Assembly
Method
Garlic Butter
Soften butter
Remove 1 cup unsalted butter from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes until soft but not melted. Alternatively, microwave in 5–8 second bursts until spreadable.
Prepare garlic and herbs
Peel and finely mince 6 garlic cloves. Finely chop 3 tablespoons fresh parsley and 1 tablespoon fresh basil (if using). Grate 1 teaspoon lemon zest if using.
In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped basil (optional), 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan (optional), 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional), and 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional). Mix thoroughly with a fork or spatula until fully incorporated and smooth. Taste and adjust salt/pepper as needed.
Bread & Assembly
Preheat oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven. If making cheesy garlic bread, you may set the broiler to finish later.
Prepare the loaf
Take 1 large French baguette (about 12 inches) and place it on a cutting board. Using a serrated knife, slice the loaf in half lengthwise to create two flat surfaces. For pull-apart style, instead of halving, make diagonal slices 1 inch apart without cutting all the way through, leaving the base intact.
Spread garlic butter
Using a butter knife or offset spatula, spread the prepared garlic butter evenly over both cut surfaces of the halved loaf (or into each cut if using pull-apart). Use all the butter for generous coverage. If desired, lightly brush the crust with 1 tablespoon olive oil to help browning.
Add cheese (optional)
If making cheesy garlic bread, sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella evenly over the buttered surface(s). For pull-apart, tuck some cheese into the cuts so it melts inside.
Bake
Place the prepared loaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment or foil (buttered side up). Bake in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, until the butter has melted and the edges are bubbly. If using cheese and you want a golden top, switch the oven to broil for the final 1–2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.
Finish & serve
Remove garlic bread from the oven. If desired, sprinkle an additional 1 tablespoon chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan over the top. Let rest 2 minutes, then slice into serving pieces (if halved) or separate pieces for pull-apart. Serve hot.