In a mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with ⅓ cup of freshly grated parmesan cheese, 2 teaspoons of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and red pepper flakes. Mix until creamy, then gently fold in a tablespoon of freshly chopped parsley.

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise. Place the halved loaf on a baking sheet, cut sides facing up.

Spread the garlic butter mixture generously onto the cut sides of both halves of the bread.

Press the halves together with the buttery sides facing inward, then wrap the loaf tightly in aluminum foil.

Bake covered for 10-12 minutes. Check to see if the bread is warm and fragrant after 10 minutes.

Unwrap the foil, open the bread cut sides up and return it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

Remove the garlic bread from the oven and allow it to cool for a couple of minutes. Slice the bread into individual pieces for easy serving.