Ingredients
Bread and Butter Mixture
- 1 (14 oz) loaf French bread or Italian bread
- 1/4 cup salted butter, softened
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic, or 1 tsp granulated garlic
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare bread: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise. Prepare two sheets of foil about 24 inches long each, placing them side by side with a slight overlap on a rimmed cookie sheet. Place the bread halves cut side up on the foil-lined sheet.
- Make garlic butter mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, olive oil, minced garlic (or granulated garlic), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Spread and bake wrapped bread: Evenly spoon and spread the garlic butter mixture over the entire surface of both bread halves, making sure to coat the edges to prevent burning. Wrap the bread tightly in the overlapping foil sheets, crimping the edges and rolling up the ends. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
- Add cheese and bake uncovered: Carefully remove the bread from the oven and open the foil, rolling it inward to expose the bread. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheeses over both halves. Return the bread to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until the cheese starts melting.
- Broil for crispy cheese topping (optional): For a crispier bread and golden, bubbly cheese, switch the oven to broil during the last 1 to 2 minutes. Watch carefully to avoid burning. There is no need to move the oven rack.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle evenly with finely chopped fresh parsley. Slice into individual servings and serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian bread for French bread if preferred.
- Use fresh minced garlic for a stronger garlic flavor or granulated garlic for a milder taste.
- For a dairy-free option, replace butter and cheeses with plant-based alternatives.
- Keep a close eye while broiling to prevent the cheese from burning.
- This bread is best served fresh and warm on the day it is made.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
