Garlic Bread Recipe

Preheat oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Position a rack in the middle of the oven.

Slice the loaf: place the loaf on a cutting board and, using a serrated knife, slice it crosswise into 1-inch thick slices without cutting all the way through so the bottom remains intact (if you prefer pull-apart pieces, cut completely through into individual slices).

Soften butter: ensure the unsalted butter is soft enough to mix easily. If it is not, microwave for 5–8 seconds—do not melt.

Combine butter and oil: in a medium bowl, combine the softened butter and olive oil and stir until smooth and spreadable.

Prep garlic & herbs: mince the garlic finely (or grate on a microplane). Chop the parsley and optional basil finely.

Mix: add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, basil (if using), dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the butter-oil mixture. Stir thoroughly until evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Spread: using a small knife or spoon, spread the garlic-herb butter between the slices and over the top of the loaf, ensuring each slice gets some mixture. If loaf was cut completely through, spread on each face of each slice.

Add cheese: if using cheese, sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly into the cracks between slices and over the top. Finish with a light dusting of grated Parmesan.

Wrap or place: for softer interior and crisp top, place the prepared loaf on a baking sheet lined with foil. For extra-crispy crust, leave uncovered; for a slightly steamed interior, tent loosely with foil.

Bake: bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes until butter is melted and bread is heated through. If cheese is used and you want a golden top, remove foil (if used) for the last 2–3 minutes or place under the broiler for 1–2 minutes watching closely to avoid burning.

Garnish & serve: remove from oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and optional lemon zest. Let rest 1–2 minutes, then serve warm. If loaf was not fully cut through, serve by pulling slices apart; if slices were separate, serve on a platter.