Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Slice the Italian bread loaf in half lengthwise.
• In a bowl, stir together 8 tablespoons butter, 8 minced garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, ½ teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, and kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste until well combined and spreadable.
• Spread the garlic-butter mixture evenly over the cut sides of both bread halves.
• Drizzle 2 tablespoons olive oil evenly over the cut sides (about 1 tablespoon per half).
• Place the bread halves cut-side up on a baking sheet, leaving space between them.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes, until the bread is golden and the edges are toasted.
• Remove the baking sheet from the oven, evenly sprinkle 1½ cups shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese over the cut sides, and return to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes more, until the cheese melts.
• Remove from the oven, top with crushed red pepper and chopped fresh parsley, sprinkle additional Parmesan as desired, slice, and serve.