Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Slice the bread in half lengthwise, revealing its open crumb and crusty edges.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, listening for it to bubble gently and smell fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until the aroma is rich and fragrant, but not browned.
Using a brush, evenly spread the warm garlic butter over the cut sides of the bread, making sure to cover all the nooks and crannies. This step infuses the bread with flavor and promotes crispy edges.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley evenly over the buttered surfaces for a burst of fresh green flavor, then add a pinch of flaky sea salt for extra crunch and taste.
Place the bread halves cut side up on the baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, watching for the edges to turn deep golden brown and caramelized, with a slight char for smoky flavor.
For an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye so the edges develop a deep, crispy crunch without burning.
Remove the garlic bread from the oven and let it rest for 2 minutes. Then, slice into pieces or serve whole, showcasing the crispy, caramelized edges and fragrant, buttery interior.
Enjoy immediately while hot and crispy, perhaps drizzled with a little more olive oil or sprinkled with Parmesan for extra flavor.
