Artisan Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe

If you’re ready to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread infused with bold garlic and nutty parmesan cheese, then this Artisan Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a heavenly combination of simple ingredients transformed into a crusty, golden loaf that’s chewy on the inside and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a gathering, this bread never fails to impress with its artisan texture and rich, savory taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Believe it or not, this Artisan Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe comes together using straightforward ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each one brings its own unique contribution, whether it’s adding flavor, ensuring the perfect crust, or delivering that fluffy interior.

• 3¼ cups all-purpose or bread flour: Provides the structure and chewiness every good artisan bread needs.
• 1 1/4 teaspoons coarse kosher sea salt: Enhances the bread’s flavor and balances the richness of the cheese and garlic.
• ½ teaspoon active dry yeast: The magic that makes your dough rise and creates those delightful air pockets.
• 1½ cups + 2 tablespoons warm water: Hydrates the flour and activates the yeast for that tender crumb and crispy crust.
• 6 cloves garlic (fresh or roasted, minced): Brings that unmistakable warmth and depth that garlic lovers crave.
• 1 cup freshly grated or shredded parmesan cheese (divided): Adds a salty, nutty richness that takes the bread to a whole new level.
• ¼ teaspoon freshly minced rosemary (optional): Offers a subtle herbaceous note that complements garlic and cheese beautifully.

How to Make Artisan Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Dry Ingredients and Add Water

Start by whisking together your flour, kosher salt, and active dry yeast in a medium bowl. The salt not only boosts flavor but also controls yeast growth, so don’t skip it! Gradually add warm water while stirring gently with a wooden spoon. You’re looking to incorporate just enough water to form a loose, shaggy dough. This initial mixing helps develop the gluten structure that’s so essential for that perfect crumb.

Step 2: First Rise – Patience is Key

Transfer your rough dough ball to a clean, ungreased large bowl. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and leave it in a draft-free spot to rise. The slow, long rise of about 18 hours (though 12 hours works too) lets the dough ferment gradually, developing complex flavors and an airy texture. When it’s ready, you’ll see tiny bubbles dotting the surface and the dough will have more than doubled in size.

Step 3: Preheat Your Dutch Oven

Place your Dutch oven with its lid in the oven and preheat it to a scorching 450 degrees Fahrenheit (232 degrees Celsius). This step ensures a piping hot vessel for your dough, which helps create the signature crunchy crust of artisan bread. Heating it for 30 minutes gives you just the right environment for baking success.

Step 4: Knead in Garlic, Parmesan, and Rosemary

Once the dough has risen, gently but thoroughly knead in the minced garlic, half of your parmesan cheese, and optional rosemary. This is the moment those flavors truly become part of every bite, weaving throughout the bread. Transfer the dough onto a parchment paper square that fits your Dutch oven’s bottom. Lightly flour the top and cover with plastic wrap again for a 30-minute rest. Scoring the dough with a sharp knife in an X pattern helps control how it expands while baking and gives it that rustic charm. Don’t forget to mist or brush the dough lightly with water to help the crust crisp beautifully.

Step 5: Bake Your Bread to Golden Perfection

Carefully remove the preheated Dutch oven from the oven. Lift your dough on the parchment paper right into the pot, cover it with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. The steam trapped inside creates an ideal baking environment for that gorgeous crust. Then, remove the lid, sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese on top, and bake for an additional 8 to 12 minutes until the crust is a deep golden brown. Allow the bread to cool on a rack for at least 30 minutes—this resting time is crucial to prevent a gummy crumb and to let those flavors fully settle.

How to Serve Artisan Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe

Garnishes

To really elevate your bread, sprinkle fresh parsley or basil over warm slices for a pop of color and fresh flavor. You could also drizzle a little quality olive oil or melt some garlic butter to brush on top. These simple touches complement the bread’s rich garlic and parmesan notes perfectly.

Side Dishes

This bread is a dream companion to soups and salads. Think creamy tomato basil soup, hearty minestrone, or a fresh citrusy salad. It’s also fantastic alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti aglio e olio or your favorite bolognese. The Artisan Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe even stands out as a snack with dips like hummus, spinach artichoke, or warm marinara sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a spectacular party presentation, serve the bread in a rustic bread basket lined with a linen cloth. Slice it just before serving to showcase the airy crumb and golden crust. You can even hollow out a loaf to turn it into an edible bowl for creamy dips or fondue. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any bread left, store it wrapped tightly in foil or in a resealable bag at room temperature. This keeps the crust crispier and the interior soft for up to two days. Avoid refrigerating, as it tends to dry out artisan-style breads faster.

Freezing

For longer storage, slice the bread and freeze it using an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags. This method is perfect for grabbing a slice or two on busy days. When ready to eat, just thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer.

Reheating

To enjoy your bread as fresh as can be, reheat it in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes. Wrapping it loosely in foil during reheating prevents the crust from burning while reviving the soft, chewy inside. You can also warm individual slices in a toaster or under your broiler for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

While fresh garlic offers a more vibrant and authentic flavor, you can substitute garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 to 1½ teaspoons of garlic powder, but keep in mind the texture will be different and less aromatic than fresh or roasted garlic.

What is the benefit of the long rise time?

The slow, extended rise allows natural fermentation that develops more complex flavors and better texture by making the dough lighter and the crust more crispy. It transforms simple ingredients into something truly special and artisan.

Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?

You can bake it on a baking stone or heavy baking sheet, but the Dutch oven’s lid traps steam, creating the ideal environment for crust development. If you don’t have one, try placing a pan of hot water in the oven while baking to mimic steam, but the results might vary.

Is this bread suitable for beginners?

Absolutely! Despite sounding fancy, this Artisan Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe is simple and forgiving. The long rise and no-knead steps reduce hands-on time, and the rest comes down to patience and care. It’s a fantastic recipe to build confidence in baking artisan bread at home.

Can I add other herbs besides rosemary?

Definitely! Thyme, oregano, or basil are great alternatives that pair wonderfully with garlic and parmesan. You can even mix a blend of your favorites for a custom twist. Just be sure to use fresh herbs finely minced for the best flavor infusion.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Artisan Garlic Parmesan Bread Recipe in your baking repertoire. It’s that comforting, flavorful loaf that makes any meal feel special and every bite worth savoring. I can’t wait for you to try it out, fill your home with its incredible aroma, and enjoy the perfect crust and cheesy, garlicky goodness one slice at a time.

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