Ingredients You’ll Need

• Bread: Italian bread is my preferred choice, but feel free to substitute with French bread if you like.
• Cheese: The star of this dish is the cheese! I recommend a delightful combination of gouda and mozzarella, but use any cheese you have on hand.
• Butter: We’ll be using unsalted butter for a balanced flavor.
• Fresh Garlic Bulbs: Roasted garlic takes this recipe to the next level—don’t skip it!
• Spices: We like to keep it simple with salt and Italian seasoning.
• Honey (optional): A dash of honey adds a delightful twist, but it’s entirely up to you!
• Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish adds a beautiful touch.

Instructions

1. Roasting the Garlic

   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take a whole bulb of garlic and slice the top off. Drizzle it with a bit of olive oil, wrap it in aluminum foil, and roast it in the oven for about 35 to 40 minutes, or until it is golden and buttery soft.

2. Making the Compound Butter

   Once your garlic is perfectly roasted, it’s time to make the compound butter. In a small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter with the roasted garlic, Italian seasoning, honey, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency.

3. Preparing the Bread

   Now, slice your Italian bread in half lengthwise. Generously spread half of the garlic butter mixture on one side of the bread and the remaining mixture on the other side. Don’t hold back—make sure each side is well coated!

4. Layering the Cheese

   Time for the best part: cheese! Pile on the gouda and mozzarella until each side is completely covered. You want it cheesy!

5. Baking to Perfection

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the cheesy garlic bread for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melty and delicious. Then, turn on the broiler to low and broil for an additional 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to ensure it doesn’t burn. You’re looking for that beautifully bubbly and golden-brown top!