Preheat your oven to 425°F. This ensures that your garlic bread cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the bread from sticking and make cleanup easier.
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Use a spatula to mix it well. The butter should be soft enough to blend easily, creating a smooth garlic spread.
Take your French loaf and slice it in half lengthwise. If you prefer, you can cut it into individual slices, but halving it gives you a beautiful presentation.
Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread. Use a spatula to cover it thoroughly, allowing the flavors to seep in.
If you’re feeling indulgent, sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese for that extra cheesiness.
Place the prepared bread on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will help it become crispy without burning.
Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the edges of the bread turn golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.
If you love a deep golden color, broil the bread for an additional 2 minutes. Just make sure to watch it closely—things can go from golden to burnt in a flash!
Once done, remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the flavors settle and make slicing easier.
Slice and serve your garlic bread warm. Enjoy it as a side dish, appetizer, or snack!
