Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a warm, aromatic delight that’s as comforting as it is crowd-pleasing, you have to try this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread. Imagine a golden crust, an irresistibly soft inside, and each bite brimming with the bold flavors of fresh garlic, fragrant herbs, and buttery Parmesan. Whether you’re serving it alongside a family dinner or sneaking a slice straight from the oven, this bread promises to steal the spotlight and satisfy every carb-loving soul at your table!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread lies in its straightforward ingredient list—simple staples combine to create a loaf that’s anything but ordinary. As you bring each element together, you’ll notice how each one plays a unique role in building incredible flavor, texture, and depth.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy, pillowy base for the bread—don’t substitute with cake or bread flour here for best results.
- Active dry yeast: The magic that makes your bread rise; fresh yeast means fluffier bread!
- Sugar: Just a touch to help activate the yeast and balance out the savory flavors.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out all the nuanced flavors—don’t skip it.
- Warm water: At the right temperature, it wakes up the yeast and starts the whole dough process.
- Olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle fruitiness that enhances the crust.
- Garlic: Freshly minced cloves infuse the bread with robust, irresistible flavor.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient that gives every bite a nutty, salty punch.
- Fresh parsley: Bright and slightly peppery, it adds lovely color and freshness.
- Fresh rosemary: Pungent and woodsy, just a tablespoon ups the herby wow factor.
- Fresh thyme: Earthy and subtle, thyme perfectly balances the assertive garlic and Parmesan.
- Italian seasoning: This blend ties all the herbs together and layers in extra charm.
- Melted butter: Brushed on top just before baking, it delivers buttery goodness and a beautiful golden finish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by mixing the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. After a gentle stir, let this mixture sit for about 5-10 minutes. The yeast will become frothy and bubbly, signaling it’s come alive—which is your ticket to light, airy bread!
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and whisk together the flour and salt. Make a little well in the center, which will soon cradle your yeast mixture and olive oil for an easy dough come-together.
Step 3: Mix the Dough
Pour the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil into your flour well. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix everything until a shaggy dough forms—it will look a bit messy, but that’s exactly how it should at this stage!
Step 4: Knead Until Smooth
Move the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead away for 8-10 minutes. You’ll feel the dough transform from awkward to silky and elastic—it’s a little kitchen workout, but completely worth it.
Step 5: First Rise
Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, and turn it so the whole surface gets a little oil. Cover with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rest in a warm place until doubled in size—about 1 hour. Watching dough rise always feels like magic!
Step 6: Make the Garlic Parmesan Herb Mixture
While the dough rises, mix together the minced garlic, Parmesan, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. This fragrant blend is what transforms classic bread into show-stopping Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread.
Step 7: Shape and Fill
Punch down the risen dough gently, then roll it out on a floured surface into a 12×18-inch rectangle, about half an inch thick. Sprinkle your garlic-Parmesan-herb mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a small border to help seal the log.
Step 8: Roll and Coil
Starting from a long edge, roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seams closed to keep all that herby goodness inside. Gently coil the log into a spiral or tuck it into a round cake pan, seam side down.
Step 9: Second Rise
Cover the pan loosely and let the shaped bread rise in a warm spot for another 30-45 minutes, until nicely puffed. Your patience will pay off with beautiful layers later!
Step 10: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the bread with melted butter for a luscious finish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until beautifully golden and it sounds hollow when tapped underneath. Prepare yourself for the heavenly smell filling your kitchen!
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread
Garnishes
The best finishing touch for Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a scattering of fresh herbs right after baking. These little touches add incredible visual appeal and an extra boost of flavor—plus, they make your bread look bakery-worthy!
Side Dishes
This bread is the ultimate sidekick to so many dishes. Serve thick slices with creamy pasta, silky soups, robust braises, or fresh salads. It’s perfect for soaking up sauces and bringing a comforting, aromatic twist to any meal on your table.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, consider serving your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread as a pull-apart centerpiece for a dinner party, or slice it for gourmet sandwiches. For a cozy brunch, pair it with poached eggs or avocado smash—the possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you manage to have leftovers, store your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread in an airtight container or wrapping at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps it soft and flavorful, preventing it from drying out too quickly.
Freezing
To freeze, let the bread cool completely. Slice if you prefer easy grab-and-go portions, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It keeps beautifully for up to three months—always ready to make any meal special.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw at room temperature if frozen, then reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes. This revives the crust and brings back that just-baked magic, making the Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread taste brand new!
FAQs
Can I make Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread without a stand mixer?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for hand mixing and kneading—no fancy equipment required. A sturdy spoon, clean hands, and a bit of elbow grease will do the job perfectly.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can substitute dried herbs if needed. Use about one-third the amount listed for fresh, since dried herbs are more concentrated. Your bread will still taste fantastic!
My dough isn’t rising. What went wrong?
The most common culprits are old yeast or water that’s too hot or cold. Make sure your yeast is fresh and your water is just warm to the touch, not hot. A cozy, draft-free spot helps the dough rise beautifully.
How do I make the bread extra flavorful?
Try roasting your garlic before mixing it in, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Don’t be afraid to add a bit more Parmesan for an extra cheesy loaf!
Is this bread suitable for freezing after baking?
Yes, the finished Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread freezes and thaws like a dream. Just be sure to wrap it up well to maintain that fresh-from-the-oven flavor and texture upon reheating.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your friends and family (or just treat yourself), this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is the way to go. It’s cozy, loaded with flavor, and guaranteed to turn any meal into something special. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked after the very first bite!
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Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 1 loaf 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread recipe is a flavorful and aromatic bread that’s perfect for serving alongside soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own. The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs creates a delicious savory bread that’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic Parmesan Herb Mixture:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
For Brushing:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour and salt, then make a well in the center.
- Combine Ingredients: Pour frothy yeast mixture into the well, add olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead Dough: Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth.
- Rise Dough: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
- Prepare Garlic Parmesan Mixture: Combine garlic, Parmesan, herbs, and seasoning in a bowl.
- Roll Out Dough: Roll dough into a rectangle, spread herb mixture, and roll into a log.
- Shape Bread: Form dough into a spiral, place in a pan, and let rise for 30-45 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush with Butter: Brush risen dough with melted butter.
- Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Notes
- This bread is best served warm.
- Feel free to customize the herb mixture with your favorite fresh herbs.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 50g)
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread, Homemade Bread Recipe, Savory Bread Recipe
