Perfect Parmesan Garlic Bread Recipe
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.
- Author: Sana
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 13 hours 5 minutes (including 12-18 hour rise and 30 minute rest)
- Yield: 1 large loaf (serves approximately 8) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Score Dough: Using a sharp knife or lame, score the top of the dough to allow for expansion during baking.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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