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Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe

4.5 from 94 reviews

This Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread recipe yields an easy artisan-style loaf with a crisp golden crust and a flavorful, cheesy garlic interior. Made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, parmesan, and fresh garlic, this bread is perfect as a savory snack or alongside your favorite meals. The dough is prepared with a long overnight rise for optimal texture and baked in a preheated Dutch oven to achieve a beautiful crust and tender crumb.

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
  • 23 cloves minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh rosemary or parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix 3 1/4 cups (390g) of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons (10g) salt, and 1 teaspoon (5g) granulated sugar until evenly distributed.
  2. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons (7g) active dry yeast into 1 1/2 cups (360ml) warm water (110°F/43°C). Let it sit for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
  3. Form Dough: Pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients. Add 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil and mix with a wooden spoon until combined. The dough will be sticky, which is ideal for the desired texture.
  4. Add Flavorings: Fold in 1 cup (100g) freshly grated parmesan cheese and 2–3 cloves of minced garlic. If using, add 1 tablespoon (15g) chopped fresh rosemary or parsley and incorporate evenly.
  5. First Rise: Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. Leave the dough to rise in a warm spot for 12–18 hours (overnight) until it doubles in size and becomes bubbly.
  6. Shape Dough: Transfer the risen dough to a floured surface. Gently shape it into a round loaf, taking care not to overwork it to preserve the airy texture.
  7. Rest and Preheat: Place the shaped dough on parchment paper and let it rest for 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). If using a Dutch oven, place it inside the oven to heat as well.
  8. Score Dough: Using a sharp knife or lame, score the top of the dough to allow for expansion during baking.
  9. Bake Covered: Carefully place the parchment paper and dough into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes to develop the crust.
  10. Bake Uncovered: Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
  11. Cool: Transfer the bread to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This step ensures the texture is fully set.

Notes

  • Use warm water around 110°F (43°C) to activate the yeast without killing it.
  • For a fresh herb flavor, add chopped rosemary or parsley; otherwise, omit for a classic parmesan garlic taste.
  • The long rise time is critical for developing flavor and texture; do not shorten it.
  • A Dutch oven helps trap steam, creating a crisp crust, but you can bake on a baking stone or sheet if unavailable—just adjust baking times accordingly.
  • Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing to prevent a gummy texture inside.

Keywords: parmesan garlic bread, artisan bread, homemade bread, garlic bread recipe, easy bread, parmesan cheese bread, overnight dough