Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Name: Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup warm water (about 100-110°F); 1 tablespoon granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon instant dry yeast; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 2 teaspoons dried rosemary; 6 cloves garlic, finely chopped; 2 to 2½ cups all-purpose flour; ⅓ cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1 tablespoon butter (split for topping); 2 tablespoons olive oil

Author: Clara Hastings

Published: July 28, 2025

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Introduction to Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

There’s something utterly magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling your home. It’s like a warm hug on a cool day! Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread, a delightful twist on traditional bread that’s so easy to make. This recipe is perfect for busy moms and professionals juggling countless responsibilities. Whether you want to impress your loved ones at dinner or simply enjoy a slice with soup after a hectic day, this bread is your go-to solution. Trust me, they’ll be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is a game-changer. It’s remarkably easy to whip up, even for the busiest of cooks. In just a little over an hour, you can have warm, aromatic loaves ready to share. The delightful combination of garlic and parmesan makes every bite taste like a gourmet treat. Plus, it pairs beautifully with soups or salads, making it a versatile addition to any meal!

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of baking! Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread:

Salt: A crucial seasoning that enhances the flavors. Makes everything taste better!
Warm Water: This is where the magic starts. It activates the yeast, so don’t make it too hot!
Granulated Sugar: A little sugar helps feed the yeast, giving your bread a nice rise.
Instant Dry Yeast: This makes the bread fluffy. The instant variety is super user-friendly.
Dried Basil: This adds a hint of Italian charm and earthiness to the bread.
Dried Oregano: Another herb that complements the garlic and parmesan perfectly!
Dried Rosemary: Its fragrant nature gives a lovely aroma and flavor contrast.
Garlic: Freshly minced for that robust flavor. It’s the star of the show!
All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of your bread, creating structure and texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated for a cheesy, savory punch that you can’t resist.
Butter: A touch for topping – because who doesn’t love buttery goodness?
Olive Oil: To keep things moist and flavorful; plus, it helps the dough rise beautifully.

You’ll find exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print. Dive in, and get imaginative! Feel free to swap in your favorite herbs or cheeses for a personal touch.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Let’s get things bubbling! Start by pouring warm water into a large bowl. It should feel cozy but not scalding, about 100-110°F. Sprinkle in granulated sugar and instant dry yeast. Stir it gently, then let it sit for about five minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it gets foamy and bubbly like a mini volcano! This foam is your secret weapon, as it means the yeast is active and raring to go!

Combine Ingredients

Now for the fun part! Stir in the salt, minced garlic, and dried herbs until everything is saturated with flavor. Next, gently mix in two cups of all-purpose flour and the grated parmesan cheese. You want a sticky dough, almost like wet sand, sticking to your fingers just a bit. If it’s not there yet, you can always add more flour, but we’ll save that for the next step!

Knead the Dough

Time to get your hands in there! Lightly flour your countertop, and dump the dough out. Start kneading it, stretching and folding for about eight to ten minutes. The dough should begin to feel soft and stretchy, like a rubber band. Add more flour gradually if it seems too tacky. The goal is to achieve that lovely, smooth texture that feels good to the touch. You get to work those arms, and trust me, it’ll be worth it!

Let the Dough Rise

Once kneaded, place your beautiful dough in an oiled bowl. Turn it around so it’s lightly coated in oil, which prevents sticking. Now, cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Find a cozy spot for it to rise—like a warm kitchen corner without drafts. Patience is key! Let it rise for about an hour, until it’s doubled in size. This is when the dough becomes fluffy and light!

Shape the Loaves

When the dough is ready, give it a gentle punch to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal pieces, and shape each piece into a round ball. As you create these charming loaves, place them on a greased baking sheet, leaving some space in between. They’ll puff up when they rise again, making each loaf the star of your dinner table!

Final Rise and Bake

Cover those lovely loaves again and let them rise for another 15-20 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 375°F. Right before baking, brush them with melted butter for that irresistible golden tint. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. The aroma? Pure bliss! Once done, let them cool slightly on a rack before slicing. Enjoy the warm, garlic-infused goodness!

Tips for Success

Ensure your water temperature is just right for yeast activation—it should feel warm, not hot.
Don’t rush the rising process; give the dough time to double in size for fluffy bread.
Experiment with herbs and cheeses based on your family’s favorites.
If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add flour until it reaches the right texture.
Brushing with butter right before baking enhances flavor and color.

Equipment Needed

Large Mixing Bowl: A versatile bowl; you can also use a Dutch oven if available.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accuracy; a kitchen scale works as an alternative.
Baking Sheet: Any flat baking surface will do!
Kitchen Towel: A clean napkin works well to cover the dough.
Pastry Brush: Ideal for buttering your loaves; a spoon can substitute.

Variations on Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add extra mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a gooey, cheesy twist.
Herb-Infused Olive Oil: Brush the loaves with herb-infused olive oil instead of butter for a unique flavor.
Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat for a heartier texture.
Spicy Kick: Mix in red pepper flakes or black pepper for a hint of spice that complements the garlic.
Chopped Green Onions: Fold in some chopped green onions for a fresh flavor burst in every bite.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make this bread suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices warm with a generous spread of butter for a comforting treat.
Pair with a hearty bowl of soup, like tomato basil or minestrone, for a complete meal.
Enjoy alongside a fresh green salad sprinkled with feta cheese.
For a fun twist, serve them with garlic-infused olive oil for dipping.
Presentation tip: Arrange the loaves on a rustic wooden board, garnished with fresh herbs.

FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor even more. Just remember to use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried.

How do I store leftover Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, slice and freeze the bread for up to three months.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This easy bread recipe is perfect for doubling. Just keep your rising space in mind, as it might take a bit more room on your counter.

What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread?

This bread is fantastic with soups, salads, or as a side to your favorite pasta dish. It’s quite versatile and adds an aromatic touch to any meal!

Can I add other cheeses to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or provolone for a unique twist on this homemade bread.

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about creating your own Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread. The way it fills your home with warmth and inviting scents is truly delightful. As you slice into the crusty exterior, every bite holds a melody of garlic, herbs, and that irresistible cheese. This bread not only makes ordinary meals feel extraordinary; it also brings family and friends together around the table. The joy of baking this delicious treat is matched only by the smiles it brings to those you share it with. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!