1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for a softer crust or 400°F (200°C) for a crispier finish.
2. Choose your preferred bread, such as French bread, ciabatta, or sourdough. Slice the loaf in half lengthwise and place the cut sides facing up on a baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, mix softened butter with freshly chopped garlic (or garlic powder), chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until combined, and add a pinch of salt if using unsalted butter.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture generously over the cut sides of the bread, ensuring full coverage.
5. Add a layer of cheeses, such as mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan, evenly over the buttered bread. You can also include Fontina, Provolone, or White Cheddar for more flavor variation.
6. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes for a softer texture or at 400°F for 10-12 minutes for a crispier finish. To brown the top, broil for an additional minute while keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
7. Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing into pieces.
8. Serve warm as a standalone snack, an appetizer, or pair it with pasta dishes, soups, or stews for a complete meal.