Description
This perfect Parmesan garlic bread is an easy-to-make artisan-style loaf that boasts a crispy crust and soft, flavorful interior. Infused with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and optional fresh herbs, it pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, and pasta dishes. Using a simple no-knead dough that rises overnight, this recipe delivers bakery-quality bread right from your home oven.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 3 1/4 cups (390g) all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons (10g) salt
- 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast
Wet Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar until well combined, ensuring even distribution.
- Proof Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons active dry yeast in 1 1/2 cups warm water set at about 110°F (43°C). Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, then stir everything with a wooden spoon until combined. Expect the dough to be sticky — this is ideal for a soft interior.
- Add Flavorings: Fold in 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese and 2–3 cloves minced garlic. If using, add 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary or parsley to infuse herbal aroma and flavor.
- First Rise: Cover the bowl tightly with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Place in a warm spot and let the dough rise for 12–18 hours or overnight. It should double in size and become bubbly as it ferments.
- Shape Dough: After the long rise, turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Gently shape it into a round loaf, taking care not to overwork so the airy texture is preserved.
- Second Rise and Preheat: Transfer the loaf onto parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes while preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). If you have a Dutch oven, place it inside to preheat as well, which helps create steam for a crispy crust.
- Score Loaf: Using a sharp knife or bread lame, carefully score the top of the dough with a few shallow cuts. This scoring lets the bread expand during baking and gives it an artisan appearance.
- Bake Covered: Lift the parchment paper with the dough into the hot Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes to trap steam and promote crust development.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the crust is deeply golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool Bread: Remove the bread from the Dutch oven and cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Cooling allows the crumb to set and improves texture.
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.