Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe

Introduction

This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread recipe offers an easy, artisan-style loaf bursting with savory flavors. With a crispy crust and soft, cheesy interior infused with garlic and fresh herbs, it’s ideal for any meal or snack.

Ingredients

• 3 1/4 cups (390g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (around 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 cup (100g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2–3 cloves of minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh rosemary or parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Step 2: In a small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
3. Step 3: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add olive oil and mix with a wooden spoon until combined; the dough will be sticky.
4. Step 4: Fold in the grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and if desired, chopped rosemary or parsley.
5. Step 5: Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 12–18 hours, until doubled in size and bubbly.
6. Step 6: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and shape gently into a round loaf, avoiding overworking it.
7. Step 7: Place the dough on parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, preheat it inside the oven.
8. Step 8: Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife to allow expansion during baking.
9. Step 9: Carefully place the dough with parchment paper into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
10. Step 10: Remove the lid and bake an additional 15 minutes until the crust is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
11. Step 11: Cool the bread on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing to set the texture.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, brush the crust with melted butter mixed with garlic before baking.
• Swap fresh rosemary with thyme or basil depending on your preference.
• If you don’t have a Dutch oven, bake the dough on a preheated baking stone or sheet and place a pan of water in the oven for steam.

Storage

Store the bread wrapped in a clean towel or paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze it in a resealable bag for up to 1 month. Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven to restore crispness.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used. Reduce the yeast to about 1 1/2 teaspoons and add it directly to the dry ingredients before mixing the water.

What if I don’t have fresh parmesan cheese?

Grated pre-packaged parmesan can be used, but freshly grated parmesan provides a more vibrant flavor and better melt.

Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 142 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 13 hours (including 12–18 hours rising and 45 minutes baking)
• Yield: 1 large artisan-style loaf (about 8 servings) 1x

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Description

This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread recipe features an easy artisan-style loaf infused with freshly grated parmesan, minced garlic, and optional fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley. The dough undergoes a long, slow rise to develop a light, airy texture and is baked in a preheated Dutch oven for a crispy crust and tender interior, making it an ideal accompaniment to a variety of meals or a delicious snack on its own.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Dough Ingredients

• 3 1/4 cups (390g) all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
• 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (around 110°F/43°C)
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil

Flavorings

• 1 cup (100g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 2–3 cloves minced garlic
• 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh rosemary or parsley (optional)

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Instructions

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar to ensure they are evenly distributed.
2. Activate yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve active dry yeast in warm water (around 110°F/43°C). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
3. Mix dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, add olive oil, and mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. The stickiness is ideal for achieving the desired texture.
4. Add flavorings: Fold in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and, if using, chopped fresh rosemary or parsley for added aroma and taste.
5. First rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for 12–18 hours or overnight, until it doubles in size and appears bubbly.
6. Shape dough: Transfer the risen dough to a floured surface and gently form it into a round loaf, taking care not to overwork it to preserve its airy texture.
7. Prepare for baking: Place the shaped dough onto parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). If you plan to bake in a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven to preheat as well.
8. Score the dough: After resting, use a sharp knife or lame to score the top of the dough. This allows controlled expansion during baking.
9. Bake covered: Carefully transfer the parchment paper and dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes to trap steam and develop a crust.
10. Bake uncovered: Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
11. Cool: Remove the bread from the oven and place it on a wire rack to cool for at least 30 minutes, allowing the crumb to set before slicing.

Notes

• Using a Dutch oven helps achieve a crispy crust by trapping steam during the initial baking phase.
• Ensure water is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast—about 110°F (43°C) is ideal.
• The long, slow rise enhances flavor and texture; do not rush this step.
• Freshly grated parmesan gives the best flavor compared to pre-grated varieties.
• Feel free to adjust garlic and herbs according to your taste preferences.
• Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to prevent a gummy texture.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Category: Bread
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Parmesan garlic bread, artisan bread, homemade garlic bread, parmesan loaf, easy bread recipe, garlic herb bread