Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, aromatic, and downright irresistible, let me introduce you to the Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread. This bread is a warm embrace in carb form, with each bite bursting with fragrant herbs, robust garlic, and the rich, savory kiss of parmesan cheese. Perfect for sharing at any meal or as a comforting snack, this Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is as satisfying to make as it is to devour, bringing a touch of homemade charm right to your kitchen table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a crucial role in making this Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread truly special. They come together to create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that beautiful golden color that makes this bread stand out.

• Instant dry yeast: The essential leavening agent that helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
• Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast for a nice, steady rise without overpowering sweetness.
• Warm water (100-110℉): Activates the yeast and helps form the dough.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness from the sugar.
• Dried rosemary: Adds a fragrant, piney note that’s classic in herb breads.
• Dried basil: Gives a subtle, sweet aroma with a slightly peppery touch.
• Dried oregano: Brings an earthy and slightly bitter depth that complements the other herbs.
• Minced garlic: The superstar flavor punch, beautifully mellowed in baking.
• All-purpose flour: The backbone of the bread, creating structure and texture.
• Grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami richness that’s downright addictive.
• Olive oil: Coats the dough for tenderness and a subtle fruity finish.
• Butter: Added on top before baking for a golden crust and a hint of richness.

How to Make Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Mix Herbs

Start by combining the instant dry yeast, granulated sugar, and warm water in a large bowl. This little mix wakes up the yeast, and you’ll see tiny bubbles or foam form, indicating it’s ready to go. Then, stir in the salt, rosemary, basil, oregano, and minced garlic—these herbs and garlic infuse the dough with their lovely aromas right from the start.

Step 2: Form the Dough

Next, add 2 cups of flour and the grated parmesan cheese to the mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together in a rough form. Now, gradually add from the remaining 1/2 cup of flour, mixing until the dough feels soft, elastic, and just slightly tacky to the touch, but not sticky. This gradual flour addition helps you avoid a dense loaf and ensures the perfect texture.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Transfer your dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and place it somewhere warm and cozy. Let it rise for about an hour or until it doubles in size. This rise is the magic moment when your dough transforms from a simple mix of ingredients into a fluffy, airy bread base.

Step 4: Shape the Loaves and Second Rise

Once risen, divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each into a round loaf and place them on a baking sheet drizzled with olive oil to prevent sticking and add subtle flavor as the crust forms. Cover the loaves and let them rise for another 15 to 20 minutes to puff up beautifully before baking.

Step 5: Butter and Bake

Right before placing the loaves in a 375°F (190°C) oven, top each one with a small piece of butter. This addition melts into the crust, yielding a gorgeous golden-brown color and a slightly crispy, buttery finish. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes until the loaves sound hollow when tapped—an instant sign that your Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is perfectly baked.

Step 6: Cool and Slice

After baking, transfer the loaves to a wire rack and let them cool. This resting time lets the crumb set nicely, so when you slice into it, the bread is tender yet sturdy, making it perfect for sandwiches, dipping, or just enjoying on its own.

How to Serve Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Garnishes

For a little extra flair, sprinkle freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or chives on top just before serving. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a rub of garlic butter can elevate the flavor, making every bite sing with fresh, vibrant notes that complement the baked-in herbs perfectly.

Side Dishes

This bread shines alongside soups, stews, or salads—think creamy tomato basil soup or a crisp Caesar salad. Its rustic texture soaks up brothy goodness or offers the perfect crunchy contrast to fresh greens, making your meal feel complete and incredibly satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For special gatherings, slice the Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread into thick wedges and serve with an assortment of dipping oils infused with chili flakes, lemon zest, or black pepper. Alternatively, turn it into a savory bread basket with cheese, olives, and roasted veggies for a centerpiece that’s both beautiful and delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra bread, store it in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. This keeps it fresh and soft for up to two days—perfect for enjoying within a couple of meals without losing that homemade vibe.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this bread! Wrap the whole loaf or slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag or container. Frozen this way, the bread maintains its flavor and texture for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw it completely before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread back to life, pop slices or the whole loaf into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This revives the crust’s crunch and the bread’s warm, fragrant heart, making it taste freshly baked all over again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried herbs?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can add a lovely brightness to this bread. Generally, use about three times the amount of fresh herbs to dried, as fresh herbs have more moisture and a milder intensity.

Do I need to knead the dough?

While this recipe encourages mixing until smooth and elastic, a short knead by hand or with a mixer ensures the gluten develops for a tender crumb. Kneading for about 5-7 minutes is usually enough to achieve the right texture.

Can I add more garlic if I love a stronger flavor?

Yes! Feel free to adjust the garlic amount to suit your taste. Roasted garlic also makes a lovely milder alternative if raw garlic seems too intense.

Is this bread suitable for sandwiches?

Definitely. The Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread holds up well thanks to its chewy crumb and flavorful crust, making it fantastic for hearty sandwiches or paninis.

What’s the best way to serve this bread for a party?

Slicing it into thick pieces and serving with flavored oils, herb butters, or alongside a charcuterie board makes this bread a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully comforting about pulling warm Rustic Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread out of your own oven—a perfect blend of fragrant herbs, savory parmesan, and rich garlic flavor. It’s an easy recipe that feels like a special treat and is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t wait to try making this at home; your taste buds will thank you!

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