Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread Recipe

If you’re a fan of bread that’s bursting with flavor and has an irresistibly golden crust, you’re absolutely going to love this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread. It’s that perfect blend of aromatic garlic, nutty Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs all wrapped into a soft, fluffy loaf. Each bite offers a warm, savory experience that’s simple to make yet impressive enough to steal the spotlight on any table. Whether you want a tasty side to your pasta or just a delicious snack, this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is a recipe that will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Sometimes all it takes is a handful of wholesome, fresh ingredients to create something truly mouthwatering, and this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is no exception. Each ingredient plays a special role — from yeast that gives life to the dough, to herbs that lift the flavors to an unforgettable level.

• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a soft, tender bread crumb.
• 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast: Essential for a perfect rise, giving the bread its airy texture.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: A little sweetness to activate the yeast and balance the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Vital for enhancing overall flavor and controlling yeast activity.
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C): The cozy temperature needed to wake up the yeast without killing it.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds silkiness and helps keep the bread moist.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Loads of savory punch that’s pure garlic goodness.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings rich, salty depth and a touch of nuttiness.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Bright, green freshness to balance the richness.
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Piney, aromatic notes that make every bite interesting.
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped: Earthy and subtle, layering in complexity.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A carefully blended herb mix that ties everything together beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for brushing): Creates that irresistible golden finish and added richness.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Step 1: Activate Your Yeast

Start by mixing your warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. This is the magic moment when the yeast begins to bubble and foam, signaling that your bread will rise perfectly. Give it 5 to 10 minutes, until frothy and alive. This patient step makes all the difference in getting that soft, airy loaf you’re dreaming of.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt, then create a little well in the middle. Pour your frothy yeast mixture and olive oil into that well. Stir everything together with a spoon or your hands until a shaggy dough forms. Then move to a floured surface and knead for about 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know you’re there when the dough becomes smooth, elastic, and just a little bit bouncy under your fingers.

Step 3: Let the Dough Rise

Shape your dough into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, turning it so every surface gleams with a light coat. Cover it tightly with a clean towel or plastic wrap, then let it rest in a warm spot for about an hour. Your patience will be rewarded when the dough doubles in size, ready to transform into something magnificent.

Step 4: Mix the Garlic Parmesan Herb Filling

While the dough is happily rising, combine garlic, Parmesan, parsley, rosemary, thyme, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. This fragrant mixture is where all the flavor explosions begin, and it smells so good you might wish you could eat it on its own!

Step 5: Shape Your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

After the dough rise, gently punch it down, then roll it out on a floured surface into a 12 by 18-inch rectangle. Spread your garlicky Parmesan herb mixture evenly over the surface, leaving just a tiny border around the edges. Carefully roll the dough into a tight log from the long side and pinch the seam to seal it shut. Coil this log into a lovely spiral shape, tucking the end underneath for a neat finish. Place it in a greased 9-inch round pan, cover, and let it rise another 30 to 45 minutes until puffed and inviting.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Once your bread has puffed up again, brush it with melted butter for that gorgeous golden sheen and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The aroma filling your kitchen will be pure comfort, and when you tap the base of the loaf it should sound pleasantly hollow—your sign that it’s ready to come out and wow everyone at your table.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Garnishes

Enhance your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread by adding a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or a dash of extra grated Parmesan on top right after baking. A light drizzle of olive oil infused with crushed garlic can add an extra luxurious touch that makes this bread irresistible.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with so many dishes. Think classic pasta with marinara or creamy Alfredo, hearty soups like tomato bisque, or even alongside a crisp green salad. It’s fantastic for soaking up sauces and adding that savory herb-infused richness to every bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more festive presentation, slice the bread before serving and fan the pieces out on a large wooden board. You can also serve it warm with small bowls of flavored butters, olive oils, or even a savory tapenade. Hosting a party? Try dipping slices into a garlic or tomato butter spread — pure bliss!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days at room temperature, perfect for snacking or a quick addition to your next meal.

Freezing

If you want to keep this bread longer, freezing is an excellent option. After baking and cooling completely, wrap the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When the craving hits, just thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm before serving.

Reheating

To bring your Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread back to life, reheat it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This refreshes the crust’s crispness and warms the flavorful, soft interior without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread?

Absolutely! If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs will work just fine. Use about one-third of the amount fresh herbs call for since dried herbs are more concentrated. Just blend them well with the garlic and Parmesan for even flavor.

What if I don’t have a 9-inch round pan to bake the bread?

No worries! You can use a similar-sized baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Just make sure it’s greased well, and the dough fits comfortably so it can rise and bake evenly.

Is it possible to make the dough in a stand mixer?

Yes, a stand mixer makes kneading a breeze. Use the dough hook attachment and mix/knead on low speed for about 6-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. It’s a great shortcut if you want to save your hands some work.

Can I add other ingredients like olives or sun-dried tomatoes to Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread?

Definitely! This bread is wonderfully versatile. Mixing in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some chili flakes can add exciting new flavors and a fun twist to the classic recipe.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Besides the beautiful golden-brown crust, tap the bottom of the loaf carefully—it should sound hollow. This hollow sound means the bread has baked through and has a light, airy interior.

Final Thoughts

Making Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread at home is one of those small kitchen pleasures that fills both your heart and your home with warmth and deliciousness. It’s simple enough to make any day but special enough to impress guests or turn a meal into a celebration. I truly hope you give this recipe a go and enjoy every garlicky, cheesy, herbaceous bite. Trust me, once you start baking this bread, it will become one of your go-to favorites you’ll want to share with everyone you love!

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