Step 1

Heat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Cut 1 loaf Italian in half crosswise with a serrated knife, then halve each piece lengthwise (for a total of 4 pieces!). Place cut-side up on the baking sheet.

Step 3

Combine 1 stick softened butter, 3 minced garlic cloves, 2 teaspoons chopped parsley, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt, and 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes, smashing and stirring together until you have paste. Spread onto the cut side of the bread.

Step 4

Bake until the bread is toasted and golden brown around the edges, 4 to 5 minutes. Use a serrated knife to slice the bread into 1 1/2-inch-wide pieces.