Anytime Sourdough Garlic Bread

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Step 2.

   Cut the 1-pound sourdough baguette in half crosswise, then cut each half in half again lengthwise, so you have four forearm-length baguette sections. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet cut sides up.

3. Step 3.

   In a small mixing bowl, use a fork to mash together 10 tablespoons softened unsalted butter, ½ cup ground Parmesan or Pecorino cheese, ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil, 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1½ teaspoons dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary, oregano, or a mix), 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper until well blended.

4. Step 4.

   Smear the butter mixture evenly onto the cut sides of the baguette pieces. (At this point, you can freeze the bread with buttered sides together; thaw on the counter for a few hours before baking.)

5. Step 5.

   Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the edges of the bread have browned nicely. Cut each section into thirds or quarters and serve warm.