Garlic Bread (4 Pieces) Recipe

Soften butter

Set 1/2 cup unsalted butter at room temperature for 20–30 minutes until easily spreadable. Alternatively, microwave in 5–7 second bursts until softened but not melted.

Mince garlic and parsley

Finely mince 3 garlic cloves and chop 1 tablespoon fresh parsley. Measure and have grated Parmesan (2 tbsp) and lemon zest (1/2 tsp) ready if using.

In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan (if using), lemon zest (if using), 1/2 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper. Mix thoroughly until smooth and evenly distributed.

Prepare oven and bread

Preheat the oven to 400°F (205°C). Slice the loaf into 4 equal pieces crosswise (or into 4 long pieces if using a large loaf) and then cut each piece horizontally to create a top and bottom if you prefer pull-apart style, or make 4 thick diagonal slices about 1–1.5 inches thick for individual pieces.

Spread garlic butter

Place the bread pieces cut-side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment. If desired, lightly brush crusts with 1 tsp olive oil. Generously spread the prepared garlic butter onto the cut surfaces of each bread piece, covering edge-to-edge so every bite has butter and garlic.

Optional assembly for extra crispness

For a crisp top, place the buttered bread directly on the baking sheet. For softer top and crisp bottom, wrap the crusts loosely in foil leaving the buttered top exposed.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes until butter is melted and bread is heated through. For a golden, slightly charred top, switch oven to broil on high for 1–2 minutes—watch closely to avoid burning.

Remove from oven. Immediately sprinkle the warm garlic bread with 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley and a pinch (about 1/4 tsp) red pepper flakes if using. Let rest 1–2 minutes, then slice (if whole pieces) and serve warm.