Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread: A Delicious Recipe for Flavorful Homemade Loaf

Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is a delightful treat that has a way of bringing people together. The moment you pull this golden-brown loaf from the oven, the irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs fills the air, making it hard to resist a slice. This recipe is not just about satisfying your taste buds; it carries a rich history rooted in Italian cuisine, where bread has always been a staple. Over the years, Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread has become a beloved favorite in many households, thanks to its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crispy crust combined with the soft, buttery interior creates a mouthwatering experience that keeps everyone coming back for more. Whether served as an appetizer, a side dish, or a snack, this bread is incredibly convenient to make and pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire!

Ingredients:

• 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
• 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
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing)

Preparing the Dough

1. **Activate the Yeast**: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means your yeast is active and ready to go! 2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This will ensure that the salt is evenly distributed throughout the flour. 3. **Combine Ingredients**: Once the yeast mixture is frothy, add it to the flour mixture along with the olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms. 4. **Knead the Dough**: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed. 5. **First Rise**: Place the kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Preparing the Garlic Parmesan Herb Mixture

6. **Prepare the Herb Mixture**: While the dough is rising, in a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, rosemary, thyme, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine all the flavors.

Shaping the Bread

7. **Punch Down the Dough**: Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release the air. Transfer it back to a floured surface. 8. **Incorporate the Herb Mixture**: Roll the dough out into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick. Spread the garlic herb mixture evenly over the surface of the dough. 9. **Roll the Dough**: Starting from one long edge, carefully roll the dough into a tight log. Pinch the seams to seal it well. 10. **Shape the Loaf**: Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a greased baking sheet. You can shape it into a round or oval loaf, depending on your preference. 11. **Second Rise**: Cover the shaped loaf with a towel and let it rise again for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has puffed up.

Baking the Bread

12. **Preheat the Oven**: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the bread will bake evenly. 13. **Brush with Butter**: Once the dough has risen, brush the top with melted butter. This will give the bread a beautiful golden color and add extra flavor. 14. **Bake the Bread**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. 15. **Cool the Bread**: Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the texture set and makes it easier to cut.

Serving Suggestions

16. **Slice and Serve**: Once cooled, slice the bread into thick pieces. It’s perfect for serving with soups, salads, or as a delicious appetizer with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. 17. **Storing Leftovers**: If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to a month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. 18. **Reheating**: To enjoy the bread again, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for

Conclusion:

In summary, this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their bread game. The combination of rich garlic, savory Parmesan, and fragrant herbs creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you serve it as a side dish to your favorite pasta, use it to soak up delicious sauces, or enjoy it on its own with a smear of butter, this bread is versatile enough to complement any meal. Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions! You can pair it with a fresh garden salad for a light lunch, or even turn it into a delightful sandwich by adding your favorite fillings. If you’re feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different herbs or cheeses to make this recipe your own. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, or you could swap out the Parmesan for a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. I encourage you to give this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread a try and share your experience with friends and family. I would love to hear how it turned out for you! Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media so we can celebrate your baking success together. Trust me, once you taste this bread, you’ll be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Happy baking! Print