Garlic Bread Recipe

Soften the butter: leave unsalted butter at room temperature until soft and spreadable (about 30–45 minutes). If short on time, cut butter into small cubes to speed softening.

Combine ingredients: in a medium bowl, add softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, grated Parmesan (if using), lemon juice (if using), salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Mix thoroughly: use a fork or spatula to mash and blend until the mixture is smooth and uniformly combined. Taste a small amount and adjust salt, garlic, or lemon to preference.

Preheat oven: set oven to 400°F (200°C). If using a broiler for final browning, have that setting available but start at 400°F.

Slice the loaf: place the baguette or loaf on a cutting board. For sliced garlic bread: cut the loaf crosswise into 1 to 1 1/2-inch thick slices, leaving a small hinge at the base if you want pull-apart style. For a split loaf: slice lengthwise through the top to make two halves.

Spread the garlic butter: using a knife or offset spatula, spread a generous layer (about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons per slice or across each half) of the prepared garlic butter onto each cut surface, ensuring butter gets between slices if sliced.

Optional oil: lightly brush the outer crust with olive oil to encourage crisping.

Arrange on a baking sheet: place the prepared bread, buttered side up, on a rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment or foil for easy cleanup.

Bake: place in the preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 10–12 minutes, until butter is melted and bread is heated through.

Brown the top (optional): for a golden, slightly crisp top, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.

Add finishing cheese: if using extra Parmesan, sprinkle over the hot bread immediately after baking so it melts slightly.

Rest and serve: remove from oven and let rest 1–2 minutes. Slice fully if you used halves, or separate slices if pull-apart. Serve warm.