Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread – Fresh from the Oven!

Name: Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 780 min
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp instant yeast; 1 ½ cups warm water (100°F / 38°C); 3 cloves garlic (minced); ½ cup grated Parmesan (plus extra for topping); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)

There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly baked bread filling your kitchen. The crackling crust, the warm aroma of garlic, and the nutty richness of Parmesan cheese—it’s pure comfort. This Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread has become one of my all-time favorites, especially for cozy weekends or when I want something special to go alongside soup or pasta.

What I love most about this recipe is how incredibly simple it is to make. You don’t need a mixer or fancy tools, just a bowl, a spoon, and a little patience. The dough does most of the work while it rests. My first few attempts weren’t perfect—I didn’t let it rise long enough or added too much flour—but once I learned to trust the process, the results were golden, fluffy, and bakery-worthy.

This bread combines a chewy, rustic crust with a soft interior that’s infused with buttery garlic and sharp Parmesan flavor. It’s the kind of loaf that disappears before it even cools down.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for a chewier texture)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon instant yeast (or active dry yeast)
1 ½ cups warm water (around 100°F or 38°C)
3 cloves garlic, finely minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)

Substitutions:

Flour: Use half whole-wheat flour for extra fiber or gluten-free all-purpose blend if needed.
Yeast: If you only have active dry yeast, dissolve it in warm water before adding.
Cheese: Try Asiago, Romano, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Garlic: Roasted garlic gives a sweeter, deeper flavor if you want a milder taste.

Instructions / Method

Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and yeast. Stir in the warm water until a sticky dough forms. It should look shaggy but moist—don’t overmix.
Add Flavor
Add minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, and Italian herbs (if using). Stir until everything is evenly distributed. The dough will still be sticky, and that’s okay—resist adding too much flour.
Let It Rise
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let it rest at room temperature for 12–18 hours. During this time, the dough will double in size and become bubbly. This slow fermentation is what gives artisan bread its beautiful texture and flavor.
Shape the Dough
Lightly flour your hands and work surface. Gently scrape the dough out of the bowl and shape it into a round loaf. Don’t knead—just fold it over a few times to create tension on the surface. Place it seam side down on parchment paper and let it rise again for 30–60 minutes.
Preheat the Oven
Place a Dutch oven (or heavy oven-safe pot with lid) inside your oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C). Allow the pot to heat for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Bake the Bread
Carefully remove the hot pot from the oven. Lift the parchment paper with the dough and place it into the pot. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top for a golden finish. Cover with the lid and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake another 10–15 minutes until the crust is deep golden brown.
Cool Before Slicing
Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the crumb set properly and prevents it from becoming gummy.

Preparation & Cooking Time

Total Time: 14–20 hours (includes resting time)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
Servings: Makes 1 medium loaf (about 8 slices)

Serving Suggestions

This Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread pairs beautifully with:

Warm soups like tomato basil or minestrone
Pasta dishes—especially creamy Alfredo or pesto pasta
As a base for garlic bread or bruschetta
Served warm with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping

Storage Tips:

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer storage, freeze slices in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm.

FAQs

Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?
Yes! You can bake it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place a metal pan with water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam for a crisp crust.

Can I shorten the rising time?
If you’re short on time, use 2 teaspoons of yeast and let it rise for 2 hours instead of overnight. The flavor won’t be as deep, but it still works.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts and blends better, but pre-grated will do in a pinch.

How do I make it dairy-free?
Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast and add an extra drizzle of olive oil for richness.

Why did my bread turn out dense?
Most likely, the dough didn’t rise long enough or had too much flour. A sticky dough and long rest make for lighter bread.

Can I add other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Try adding chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or shredded mozzarella for variety.

From My Kitchen to Yours

This Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread is the kind of bake that fills your home with warmth—literally and emotionally. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying a quiet meal, each bite offers that perfect balance of rustic charm and cheesy garlic goodness.

Once you see how easy it is to make, you’ll find yourself baking it again and again. It’s one of those simple recipes that makes you feel like a real baker every single time.