Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread Recipe
If you’re searching for a bread that will absolutely dazzle at any meal, this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is your new go-to recipe. Imagine a golden crust with ribbons of melted Parmesan and fragrant herbs weaving through every slice—the aroma alone is enough to draw a crowd to your kitchen! Tender, cheesy, and full of fresh flavor, this bread elevates the everyday loaf into something you’ll want to tear into the minute it hits the table. Full of savory garlic, punchy herbs, and a touch of buttery richness, Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is the perfect companion for cozy dinners, hearty soups, or just as a savory snack all on its own.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by the ingredient list! Each of these staples brings something special to the Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread, contributing to its irresistible texture, flavor, and color. These kitchen classics come together to deliver every layer of cheesy, herby goodness in every bite.
- All-purpose flour: Creates the ideal base for soft, pillowy bread with just enough chew.
- Active dry yeast: The backbone that helps the dough rise and achieve that lovely, airy crumb.
- Sugar: Just a teaspoon to feed the yeast and help the bread brown beautifully.
- Salt: Essential for flavor; don’t skip it!
- Warm water: Make sure it’s just warm to the touch—this activates the yeast without killing it.
- Olive oil: Adds subtle richness and keeps the crumb moist and tender.
- Garlic (minced): The star ingredient, infusing the bread with irresistible flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty notes and gooey texture—it’s not Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread without it!
- Fresh parsley: Adds fresh, grassy brightness.
- Fresh rosemary: Delivers a piney, aromatic layer that pairs perfectly with garlic and cheese.
- Fresh thyme: For subtle earthiness that keeps each bite interesting.
- Italian seasoning: Boosts the herb mix with a well-rounded, familiar flavor.
- Melted butter (for brushing): Adds a golden sheen and sumptuous flavor to the finished loaf.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by bringing your yeast to life. In a small bowl, stir together the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbling on top—this is your signal that the yeast is ready to go! If there’s no action, double-check your water temperature and the freshness of your yeast.
Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
While your yeast gets to work, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Create a well in the center—this is where the magic happens when you pour in the wet ingredients. Blending the salt in before any wet ingredients ensures even seasoning throughout your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread.
Step 3: Form and Knead the Dough
Pour your frothy yeast mixture and olive oil into the well in the flour. Use a wooden spoon or (my favorite) your hands to gently combine everything until a ragged dough forms. Flour your countertop and knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth, elastic, and a little springy. Don’t rush this—it’s key for a pillowy texture!
Step 4: First Rise
Shape your dough into a ball and pop it into a greased bowl, turning it once to coat every side with oil. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour, or until it has doubled in size. Watching the dough rise never gets old—each time, it means you’re one step closer to fresh Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread.
Step 5: Mix the Herb and Cheese Filling
While your dough is doing its thing, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, rosemary, thyme, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Give everything a gentle toss to mix—this blend will be rolled up into the dough, filling every layer with herby, cheesy goodness!
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once your dough has risen to its fluffy best, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and gently punch it down. Roll it into a rectangle about 12×18 inches and half an inch thick. If the dough resists, let it rest for a few extra minutes before trying again.
Step 7: Add the Filling
Evenly sprinkle the garlic, Parmesan, and herb mixture over your rectangle of dough, leaving a small border around the edges. This helps keep all that luscious filling inside as you roll things up.
Step 8: Roll and Shape
Starting with one long edge, roll the dough into a tight spiral log and pinch the seam to seal. Then, shape the log into a swirl or coil—think cinnamon roll, but savory! Tuck the end underneath and nestle the coil snugly inside a greased 9-inch round cake pan.
Step 9: Second Rise
Cover the pan and let the dough rise again in a warm spot for 30 to 45 minutes. The second rise helps this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread get sky-high and bake up light and airy.
Step 10: Bake
Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once your dough looks puffy, brush the top with melted butter (hello, golden crust) and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until beautifully browned and hollow-sounding when you tap the bottom. The kitchen will smell like heaven!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread
Garnishes
For the finishing touch, sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan and a shower of fresh herbs over the hot loaf as soon as it comes out of the oven. Not only does this add color and pizzazz, but it also intensifies the flavors and ups the wow factor of your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread.
Side Dishes
This bread shines as a side to so many meals! Serve thick slices with a steaming bowl of tomato soup, alongside pastas slathered with bold sauces, or let it steal the spotlight next to a crisp salad. Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is also a fabulous choice for soaking up hearty stews or mopping up extra sauce from your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping centerpiece, serve the bread as a pull-apart loaf—just slice partially before bringing it to the table and watch guests delight in tearing off their portions. You can also cut into thick wedges and arrange on a rustic wooden board for a casual, shareable vibe. Leftovers? Try toasting for croutons or using slices for the ultimate savory sandwich!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in foil. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For best results, store slices rather than the whole loaf, so it’s easy to grab a piece when the craving hits!
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully! Cool the loaf completely, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and place inside a freezer bag or airtight container. Store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or pop slices directly into the toaster or warm oven—so you always have Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread on hand.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked magic, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5 to 10 minutes, or toast lightly for crunchy edges. Add an extra brush of butter or a sprinkle of Parmesan while reheating for an extra indulgent treat!
FAQs
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Absolutely! If fresh isn’t available, substitute one-third the amount of dried herbs (since they’re more concentrated). The flavor will still shine through in your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread.
What’s the best way to keep the bread soft?
Store your bread tightly wrapped at room temperature and avoid leaving it exposed to air. You can also tuck a slice of apple into your storage container, which helps keep the Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread extra soft.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes! After the first rise, cover the dough tightly and keep it in the fridge overnight. Let it come to room temperature, then proceed with rolling, filling, and baking your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread the next day.
How do I make this bread gluten-free?
Try swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free bread flour blend. Be sure to check if your yeast is gluten-free as well—texture may vary, but you’ll still get scrumptious flavors!
What can I use instead of Parmesan?
Feel free to substitute Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a punchier flavor, or a milder cheese like grated mozzarella if that’s more your style. Each tweak gives a new twist to your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread!
Final Thoughts
Honestly, I could bake (and eat) Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread every week—it’s just that satisfying. If you make it for friends or family, be ready for enthusiastic requests for the recipe! Give it a try and let your kitchen fill with the heavenly aroma of garlic, cheese, and fresh herbs. You may never look at another loaf the same way again.
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Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is a flavorful and aromatic bread that is perfect for sharing with family and friends. The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs creates a deliciously savory loaf that is great for serving alongside soups, salads, or simply enjoying on its own.
Ingredients
Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Parmesan Herb Mixture:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Brushing:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix the Dough: Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Make a well, pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Rise the Dough: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour.
- Prepare the Herb Mixture: Combine garlic, Parmesan, herbs, and Italian seasoning in a bowl.
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll the dough into a rectangle.
- Add the Herb Mixture: Spread the herb mixture over the dough.
- Shape the Dough: Roll up the dough, seal the edges, and shape into a spiral.
- Second Rise: Let the dough rise in a pan for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat and Brush: Preheat the oven, brush the dough with melted butter.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden.
Notes
- This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Experiment with different herbs and cheeses for variations in flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 260mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Bread, Herb Bread, Homemade Bread Recipe
