Ingredients
Bread
- 1 pound Italian or French loaf
Garlic Butter Mixture
- 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter
- 3 medium cloves garlic, grated or finely-minced
- 1 tablespoon finely-chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
- 1/8 teaspoon dried oregano
- Flaky sea salt and coarsely-ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prep oven, baking sheet and bread: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Slice the loaf lengthwise into two halves and place them cut side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Mix the garlic butter: In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter, grated garlic, finely chopped fresh parsley, and dried oregano. Stir thoroughly until smooth and evenly blended.
- Apply the garlic butter: Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves. Then sprinkle with flaky sea salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste for added flavor.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 7 minutes, or until the edges of the bread start to turn golden brown.
- Add Parmesan and finish baking: Remove the bread briefly from the oven, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over both halves, then return to the oven and bake for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, until the cheese has melted and turned lightly golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, slice as desired, and garnish with extra fresh parsley if you like. Serve immediately while warm for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor impact in the garlic butter mixture.
- For a chewier texture, use a French baguette; for a softer bite, choose an Italian loaf.
- Adjust garlic quantity to your personal preference for milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted with mozzarella or a blend of Italian cheeses if preferred.
- Serve garlic bread alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian