1-Getting started with this garlic bread is super straightforward, and you’ll have it ready in no time. First, preheat your oven to 425°F to ensure even baking. Gather your ingredients: a 1-pound Italian or French loaf, 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter, 4 finely minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley, and 1/8 teaspoon sea salt, plus any optional cheese.

2-Next, slice the bread loaf lengthwise to create a nice surface for the spread. In a bowl, mix the softened butter with the minced garlic, chopped parsley, and sea salt until it forms a smooth paste. For added flavor, you can include the optional parmesan or mozzarella at this stage, but save the cheese for later if you prefer.

3-Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Place the prepared bread on a baking sheet and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes until the bread turns slightly golden. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it on during the last 2 minutes to let it melt perfectly.

4-For a crispier texture, extend baking by 3-5 more minutes, or wrap the bread in foil before baking for a softer finish. Once it’s done, slice the bread into 1-inch pieces and serve it warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dip. This method keeps the prep to about 5 minutes and total time around 20 minutes, making it ideal for any occasion.