Ingredients
Garlic Butter Mixture
- ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons minced fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus more for garnish
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided
Bread
- 1 (1-pound) loaf rustic bread, French or ciabatta
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic butter mixture: In a medium bowl, thoroughly combine the softened butter, minced flat-leaf parsley, minced garlic cloves, garlic powder, sea salt, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. This mixture will infuse the bread with rich, garlicky flavor.
- Slice the bread: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the rustic bread loaf lengthwise in half, ensuring both halves are evenly thick to allow for uniform cooking and spreading.
- Preheat the oven broiler: Set your oven to broil and position an oven rack in the center to ensure the bread toasts evenly without burning.
- Spread the garlic butter: Using a knife or spatula, generously spread half of the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut side of one bread half. Repeat this spreading process with the remaining garlic butter on the second bread half.
- Assemble and add Parmesan: Place the bread halves buttered side up on a rimmed sheet pan. Evenly sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top of both halves to create a golden, cheesy crust when broiled.
- Broil the bread: Place the sheet pan under the broiler and cook until the bread is golden brown and bubbly, approximately 3-4 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the bread from the oven, garnish with additional fresh parsley, slice into servings, and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use sea salt for better flavor, but kosher or regular table salt can be substituted if needed.
- Watch the bread closely while broiling; it can burn quickly within seconds.
- For extra crispiness, you can toast the bread halves lightly before spreading the garlic butter.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with pasta dishes, soups, or salads.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
