Description

This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread recipe is an easy artisan-style loaf that combines the nutty flavor of freshly grated Parmesan cheese with the aromatic punch of garlic and optional fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley. The bread is made using a simple yeast dough that requires an overnight rise for a beautifully airy texture. Baked in a hot Dutch oven, this golden, crusty loaf is perfect for serving as a flavorful accompaniment to any meal or enjoying on its own as a delicious treat.

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 Additions

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 3 1/4 cups (390g) of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons (10g) of salt, and 1 teaspoon (5g) of granulated sugar, ensuring the ingredients are well distributed.
Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons (7g) of active dry yeast in 1 1/2 cups (360ml) of warm water (around 110°F/43°C). Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
Combine Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients, add 2 tablespoons (30ml) of olive oil, and mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms, which is ideal for this bread.
Add Flavorings: Fold in 1 cup (100g) of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 2–3 cloves of minced garlic. Optionally, incorporate 1 tablespoon (15g) of chopped fresh rosemary or parsley for added herbal notes.
Let Dough Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot for 12–18 hours or overnight until it doubles in size and bubbles form on the surface.
Shape Dough: Transfer the risen dough to a floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf, taking care not to overwork to preserve air pockets in the dough.
Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped 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.
Score Dough: Using a sharp knife or lame, score the top of the dough to help control expansion and create an attractive crust during baking.
Bake Covered: Carefully transfer the parchment paper with the dough into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes to allow the bread to cook through and develop steam for a crusty exterior.
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 on the bottom, indicating it is fully baked.
Cool Bread: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing, which helps the crumb set and preserves its texture.

Notes

For best results, use a Dutch oven with a lid to create steam and achieve a crusty artisan loaf.
If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried rosemary or parsley can be used but reduce quantity to about 1 teaspoon.
Allowing the dough to rise overnight develops flavor and improves the bread’s texture.
Ensure the water used to activate yeast is around 110°F (43°C) to avoid killing the yeast.
Letting the bread cool completely before slicing prevents it from becoming gummy inside.

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, Garlic Bread, Parmesan Cheese Bread