Garlic Cheese Bread Recipe

Preheat and prepare bread

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the half-loaf of baguette lengthwise so you have two long halves. Place the cut sides up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased foil.

Soften butter if not already softened: leave at room temperature for 20–30 minutes or microwave in 5–7 second bursts until spreadable but not melted.

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter (2 tbs) with the minced garlic (2 cloves), chopped parsley (1 tsp), dried oregano (1/4 tsp), salt (1/8 tsp), and black pepper (a pinch). Mix thoroughly until evenly combined into a spreadable garlic butter.

Taste a tiny bit and adjust salt or garlic to preference. If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add an additional half clove.

Spread the garlic-herb butter evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves, covering to the edges.

Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella (1/2 cup) across the buttered surfaces. Then dust the grated Parmesan (1 tbs) over the mozzarella for extra flavor and browning.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the edges of the bread are golden.

For a crispier, browned top, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.

Remove from the oven. If using, sprinkle red pepper flakes (a pinch) and torn basil (1 tsp) over the hot cheese. Let the bread cool 1–2 minutes, then slice crosswise into 1–1.5 inch pieces and serve warm.