1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, honey, red chili flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated. This is your luscious, flavor-packed spread.
3. Take your bread loaf and slice it lengthwise so you have two large halves. Spread the honey garlic butter generously over the cut sides of the bread. Don’t be shy — the butter is where all the magic lives.
4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over both halves, then dust the Parmesan cheese on top. The combination will create a beautifully golden, bubbly cheese crust when baked.
5. Place the bread halves on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and starting to turn golden brown. Keep an eye on it — you want bubbly, not burnt!
6. Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and brightness, just like Mama Lou used to do with her herb garden’s bounty.
7. Slice into pieces and serve warm. Be prepared for the irresistible aroma to pull everyone to the table!

One tip I learned from making this with Ouma is to press down slightly on the bread with a spatula before slicing to prevent the toppings from sliding off. It’s those little touches that make the experience seamless and enjoyable.