Mix It Up: Grab a big bowl and combine 1 cup warm water, 1 tablespoon instant yeast, 1 tablespoon sugar, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon softened butter. Stir it until mixed. Add 3 cups flour—start with 1 cup, mix with a fork, then add the rest until you’ve got a nice homemade dough.
Knead the Dough: Dump the dough on a floured counter and knead it for 5–7 minutes until it’s smooth and stretchy.
Shape: Roll it out into a long loaf, like a baguette, and set it on a parchment-lined cookie sheet.
Let It Rest: Pop it in a warm spot—like your oven on “proof” if you’ve got it—for 20 minutes. If it’s just sitting out, give it 30–40 minutes until it puffs up a little. 5. Brush it: Whisk 1 egg white until it’s foamy, then brush it over the top of the dough.
Bake: Crank your oven to 425°F. Bake the bread for 18–20 minutes ‘til the crust’s golden brown. Let it cool for 10 minutes.
Garlic Butter Time: In a bowl, mix ½ cup softened butter, 3–4 grated garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon chopped parsley until it’s all blended.
Load It Up: Cut the bread in half lengthwise or into slices—your call. Slather on a thick layer of garlic butter, then pile on 1–2 cups shredded cheese.
Bake It Again: Stick it back on the tray and bake at 425°F for 5–7 minutes until the cheese melts. If you want it bubbly, hit the broiler for 1 minute, but watch it close!
Dig In: Let it cool just a bit, slice it up, and eat it hot!
