Description

This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread recipe delivers an easy, artisan-style loaf with a crispy crust and tender, flavorful interior. Infused with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and optional fresh herbs, this bread is ideal for serving alongside pasta, soups, or salads, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Flavor Ingredients

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

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar thoroughly to create the dry base for the bread.
Activate Yeast: In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water (about 110°F/43°C) and let it sit for approximately 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, add olive oil, and mix with a wooden spoon until combined. The dough should be sticky and slightly loose, which is ideal for artisan bread.
Add Flavorings: Fold in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and minced garlic to infuse the dough with rich, savory flavors. Add chopped fresh rosemary or parsley if desired for a fresh herbal note.
First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm place for 12–18 hours or overnight. The dough should double in size and become bubbly during this extended fermentation.
Shape the Dough: Transfer the risen dough onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf. Handle the dough lightly to preserve its airy structure.
Second Rest and Preheat: Place the loaf on a piece of parchment paper and allow it to rest for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C), and if using a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven to preheat as well.
Score the Dough: Using a sharp knife or bread lame, score the top of the loaf to help it expand during baking without splitting irregularly.
Bake Covered: Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the dough into the preheated Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. This method traps steam, creating a crispy crust.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid from the Dutch oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
Cool Before Slicing: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Cooling sets the crumb and improves texture before slicing.

Notes

Using a Dutch oven helps mimic the steam environment of professional bread ovens, creating a crispy crust.
Allowing the dough to rise slowly overnight enhances flavor and texture through fermentation.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides a distinctive savory depth; avoid pre-grated versions with additives.
Herbs like rosemary or parsley are optional but add a fresh aromatic dimension to the bread.
Cool the bread completely before slicing to prevent a gummy texture inside.
Store leftover bread in a paper bag at room temperature for up to 2 days for the best crust retention.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Parmesan garlic bread, artisan bread, homemade bread, easy bread recipe, savory bread, Parmesan cheese bread, garlic bread loaf