Penne with Marinara and Ricotta with Garlic Bread

Ingredients

• 1 pcs baguette (About 16-18 inches long)
• 0.5 cup unsalted butter (Softened to room temperature)
• 5 pcs garlic (cloves, freshly minced)
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Finely chopped)
• 2 tbsp parsley (fresh, finely chopped)
• 0.25 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese (Optional, for extra flavor)
• 0.5 tsp Salt (Or to taste)
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly ground)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare Oven and Bread

   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Using a serrated knife, slice the baguette into 1-inch thick slices. You can slice all the way through for individual pieces or only 3/4 of the way through for a pull-apart loaf.
2. 2

   Create the Garlic Butter Spread

   • In a medium bowl, add the softened unsalted butter, freshly minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
   • If using, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
   • Mix with a fork or spatula until all ingredients are thoroughly combined into a smooth, creamy paste.
3. 3

   Assemble the Garlic Bread

   • Place the bread slices on a large baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer.
   • Generously spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over one side of each slice of bread. If making a pull-apart loaf, spread the butter between each cut.
4. 4

   Bake to Golden Perfection

   • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
   • Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the butter is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the bread are golden brown and crispy.
   • For an extra crispy top, switch the oven to broil for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch it very closely to prevent burning.
5. 5

   Serve Warm

   • Remove the garlic bread from the oven.
   • Let it cool for a minute or two before serving. Garnish with a little extra fresh parsley if desired.