American Garlic Bread

1. 1

   Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 500 degrees.

2. 2

   Meanwhile, toast garlic cloves in small skillet over medium heat, shaking pan occasionally, until fragrant and color of cloves deepens slightly, about 8 minutes (see illustration at right).

3. 3

   When cool enough to handle, skin and mince cloves (you should have about 3 tablespoons).

4. 4

   Using dinner fork, mash garlic, butter, cheese, and salt in small bowl until thoroughly combined.

5. 5

   Spread cut sides of loaf evenly with butter mixture; season to taste with pepper.

6. 6

   Transfer loaf halves, buttered side up, onto rimmed baking sheet; bake, reversing position of baking sheet in oven from front to back halfway through baking time, until surface of bread is golden brown and toasted, 5 to 10 minutes.

7. 7

   Cut each half into 2-inch slices; serve immediately.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.