Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Set aside.

Step 2: Slice the Bread
Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the bread in half horizontally, creating a top and bottom half. If using a very long baguette, you can also cut it into smaller sections first (about 8-inch pieces) to make it easier to handle. Place both halves cut-side up on your prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter
In a small mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. If using Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, add those as well. Mix everything together with a fork until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and evenly distributed throughout the butter. The mixture should be smooth and spreadable.

Step 4: Spread the Garlic Butter
Using a butter knife or offset spatula, generously spread the garlic butter mixture over both cut surfaces of the bread. Make sure to spread it all the way to the edges and distribute it evenly. Don’t be shy with the butter – you want every bite to be flavorful. Press the butter gently into the bread so it soaks in slightly.

Step 5: Wrap and Bake (First Stage)
Place the two halves of bread back together to form a whole loaf. Wrap the entire loaf tightly in aluminum foil, creating a sealed package. Place on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. This steams the bread inside the foil, allowing the butter to melt and soak into the bread while keeping it soft.

Step 6: Unwrap and Finish (Second Stage)
Carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven (it will be hot!). Unwrap the foil and separate the bread halves again, placing them cut-side up on the baking sheet. Return to the oven, unwrapped, and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and crispy. Watch carefully during this stage as bread can go from golden to burnt quickly.

Step 7: Optional Broiling Step
For extra-crispy, golden tops, turn on your oven’s broiler and broil the bread for 1-2 minutes, watching constantly to prevent burning. The bread should turn a deep golden brown with some darker, crispy edges. This step is optional but highly recommended for the best texture.

Step 8: Slice and Serve
Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes. Using a sharp serrated knife, slice the bread into individual pieces (about 1 to 1.5 inches thick). Serve immediately while hot and crispy.