Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, softened
  • 6–8 large cloves Fresh Garlic, finely minced
  • 1/2 cup Freshly grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper, freshly ground
  • 1 standard Italian or French Bread Loaf (approx. 450g)
  • 1/2 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (Optional)

Instructions:

  1. Soften the Butter: Ensure the unsalted butter is completely softened—it should dent easily when pressed.
  2. Combine Aromatics: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  3. Mix Thoroughly: Using a spatula or spoon, thoroughly cream the ingredients until the mixture is uniform and evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  5. Slice the Bread: Slice the loaf crosswise into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick slices. Crucially, do not slice all the way through the bottom crust; the slices must remain attached at the base (accordion style).
  6. Stuff the Loaf: Generously spoon or spread the garlic butter mixture into the gaps between each slice, working from the top down. Ensure the cut surfaces are coated. Lightly spread any remaining butter over the entire top crust.
  7. Wrap for Moisture: Place the stuffed loaf onto a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminium foil. Tightly wrap the foil around the entire loaf, creating a sealed packet.
  8. Initial Bake (Steaming): Place the wrapped loaf on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes to ensure the centre is fully warmed and infused.
  9. Add Cheese (If Using): Carefully remove the loaf from the oven. Open the foil packet and sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly across the exposed buttered surfaces.
  10. Final Bake (Crisping): Return the loaf to the oven, now unwrapped, and bake for another 5–8 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is deeply golden brown and crisp.
  11. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven. Let the bread rest in the foil for 2 minutes before transferring to a serving board. Serve immediately.