Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon oregano (optional, but adds depth)—a nod to the herbs my mom would sneak into our meals
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Feel free to substitute the mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper taste or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. I remember the first time I added those flakes, it was like a little secret spice that took everyone by surprise in the best way possible.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a medium bowl, mix together the softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined. This mixture should be smooth and fragrant.
- Slice the loaf of bread in half lengthwise. Place the halves open side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spread the butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread. Make sure to cover every nook and cranny for maximum flavor.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the buttered bread. My secret tip: always add a little extra cheese for good measure!
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For an extra golden top, switch the oven to broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before slicing. This step is crucial to avoid burning your fingers—trust me, I learned the hard way.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International