If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a warm, crusty loaf infused with rich garlic and the nutty depth of parmesan, then you are in for a treat with this Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe Easy Artisan Style Recipe. This bread is not just any garlic bread; it’s a lovingly crafted artisan-style loaf that balances crispy edges with a soft, airy inside. With simple ingredients and an overnight rise that develops amazing flavor, it’s a recipe that makes any meal feel special and invites you to savor every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe Easy Artisan Style Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial part in texture, flavor, and aroma. From the humble flour forming the base to the fresh garlic and parmesan adding layers of taste, every component is essential.
- 3 1/4 cups (390g) all-purpose flour: Acts as the foundation for the bread’s chewy crumb and structure.
- 2 teaspoons (10g) salt: Enhances flavor and strengthens the dough.
- 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast for a lively rise and subtle sweetness.
- 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast: The powerhouse that makes this bread rise beautifully.
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (around 110°F/43°C): Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour for a perfect dough consistency.
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil: Adds moisture and a hint of richness while softening the crust.
- 1 cup (100g) freshly grated parmesan cheese: Brings the signature nutty, savory punch that sets this bread apart.
- 2–3 cloves of minced garlic: Infuses the bread with pungent, aromatic depth that garlic lovers will adore.
- 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh rosemary or parsley (optional): Adds a fresh herbal brightness that complements the parmesan perfectly.
How to Make Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe Easy Artisan Style Recipe
Step 1: Mix Dry Ingredients
Start by combining your flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. This dry mix forms the base of your dough, and each element helps create texture and flavor. A light whisk or stir ensures even distribution of salt and sugar, which are vital for flavor development and controlling yeast activity.
Step 2: Activate the Yeast
In a separate small bowl, dissolve the active dry yeast in warm water. The water should be around 110°F (43°C) to encourage yeast activity without killing it. After about 5 minutes, the mixture should become foamy, signaling that the yeast is alive and ready to work its magic.
Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the foamy yeast mixture into your flour bowl, add the olive oil, and mix gently with a wooden spoon until everything comes together. Don’t worry if the dough seems sticky — this is exactly what you want for a soft, airy crumb and a tender crust once baked.
Step 4: Add Parmesan, Garlic, and Herbs
Fold in the freshly grated parmesan cheese along with the minced garlic. If you like, toss in some chopped rosemary or parsley. These additions elevate the bread with savory complexity and subtle herbal notes, making every bite sing.
Step 5: First Rise – Patience is Key
Cover your bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 12 to 18 hours or overnight. This slow fermentation develops the bread’s flavor beautifully and doubles its size. Look for a bubbly surface to know it’s ready.
Step 6: Shape the Loaf
Once risen, gently transfer the dough to a floured surface. Shape it into a round loaf, taking care not to overwork it. Overhandling can squash those precious air pockets you’ve worked hard to develop.
Step 7: Second Rise and Oven Prep
Place the shaped dough onto parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes while preheating the oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven now to get it smoking hot for a perfect crust.
Step 8: Score and Bake
Score the top of the dough with a sharp knife—that classic artisan touch lets steam escape and helps the bread rise evenly. Carefully transfer the parchment paper and dough into the hot Dutch oven, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 9: Finish Baking
Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust that’s irresistibly crispy and aromatic. A hollow tap on the bottom confirms the bread is perfectly baked.
Step 10: Cool Before Slicing
Transfer your loaf to a wire rack and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the crumb set, making slicing clean and satisfying without squishing that glorious interior.
How to Serve Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe Easy Artisan Style Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little fresh chopped parsley or extra parmesan over warm slices to brighten flavors and add a finishing touch of color. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can also enhance richness and shine, turning every bite into a little celebration.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs beautifully with hearty soups like tomato basil or minestrone, fresh salads, or as a side for Italian classics like pasta or lasagna. Its savory garlic and parmesan notes complement almost any meal, making it a versatile favorite.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bread sliced alongside a small bowl of infused olive oil for dipping, or turn it into bruschetta topped with diced tomatoes and basil. For a fun twist, use thick slices to make open-faced sandwiches loaded with your favorite antipasti.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to two days. Keeping it wrapped prevents it from drying out but still preserves the crust’s charm.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices in plastic wrap and then in foil. Frozen parmesan garlic bread keeps well for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven to refresh its texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. This helps revitalize the crunch and melts any residual cheese, creating a warm, inviting snack or side dish.
FAQs
Can I use pre-shredded parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated parmesan cheese is recommended for the best flavor and texture as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that may affect melting and taste.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary or parsley?
You can omit the herbs or substitute dried versions, though fresh herbs give a brighter, more vibrant flavor that really lifts the bread.
Why should the dough be sticky?
A sticky dough indicates proper hydration, which leads to a softer interior and more open crumb. Resist adding too much extra flour to keep the texture light and airy.
Is the overnight rise necessary?
The slow, overnight rise hugely enhances flavor as the yeast ferments slowly and develops complex notes that quick rises cannot match. Patience here truly pays off in taste.
Can I bake this bread without a Dutch oven?
Yes! You can bake the loaf on a preheated baking stone or sheet, but using a covered Dutch oven traps steam and creates that wonderful artisan crust.
Final Thoughts
This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe Easy Artisan Style Recipe is a keeper for anyone who loves homemade bread with a gourmet twist. Its simple ingredients, combined with easy steps and an overnight rise, reward your patience with an irresistible loaf full of flavor and character. I truly can’t recommend making this at home enough — it’s fantastic for sharing, savoring, and making any meal memorable. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite!
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Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe Easy Artisan Style Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 13 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 large loaf (about 8-10 servings)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread recipe delivers an easy artisan-style loaf with a crispy crust and soft, cheesy, garlicky interior. Combining the richness of freshly grated parmesan, fragrant garlic, and optional fresh herbs, this bread is made using a simple overnight dough rise and baked in a preheated Dutch oven for that perfect crust and airy crumb.
Ingredients
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
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together 3 1/4 cups (390g) of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons (10g) of salt, and 1 teaspoon (5g) of granulated sugar until well combined.
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons (7g) of active dry yeast in 1 1/2 cups (360ml) of warm water (about 110°F/43°C). Let it sit for approximately 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add 2 tablespoons (30ml) of olive oil and stir everything together using a wooden spoon until combined. The dough will be sticky, which is ideal for achieving a soft interior.
- Add Cheese and Garlic: Fold in 1 cup (100g) of freshly grated parmesan cheese and 2–3 cloves of minced garlic. If desired, stir in 1 tablespoon (15g) of chopped fresh rosemary or parsley for extra flavor.
- 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 roughly double in size and develop bubbles on the surface.
- Shape the Dough: After the rise, transfer the dough onto a floured surface. Gently shape it into a round loaf, being careful not to overwork it to maintain its airy texture.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped dough onto a sheet of parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven to preheat as well.
- Score the Dough: Use a sharp knife or lame to score the top of the dough. This allows steam to escape during baking and helps the bread expand nicely.
- 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 set the crust.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool Down: Remove the bread from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to help set the texture and avoid a gummy crumb.
Notes
- Don’t rush the rise; let the dough sit overnight for better flavor and texture.
- Keep the dough sticky for a softer interior.
- Preheat your Dutch oven to achieve a crispy crust.
- Scoring the dough allows steam to escape and gives the bread an artisan look.
- Experiment with different herbs or cheeses for unique flavors.
