It’s quite beautiful what a handful of herbs can do to a rustic loaf of bread, both visually and tastefully. Simply slice, shmear, stuff, and bake until golden. I date you to bring this to your next holiday gathering or Thanksgiving table—the “oohs” and “ahs” will ensue within seconds!
1 country loaf
6 cloves garlic, minced
4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) softened butter
1/2 cup shredded gruyere and/or mozzarella
7 sprigs fresh thyme
3 sprigs fresh rosemary
3 sprigs fresh sage or basil
2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. With a rubber spatula, incorporate garlic with butter until a paste forms. Add most of cheese and stir again.
3. Slice bread in 1-inch-thick slices, leaving 1 inch uncut to keep loaf intact. Brush each slice generously with butter mixture. Tuck extra cheese and sprigs of herbs in between slices. Sprinkle parmesan cheese over top of loaf.
4. Bake bread, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Serve warm.
