Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread : The Perfect Homemade Side Dish

Nothing complements a meal quite like fresh, homemade bread. This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is the perfect combination of soft, fluffy texture and rich, savory flavor. Infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, this bread is a show-stopper that elevates any dining experience.

Whether you’re serving it alongside pasta, soup, or a holiday feast, this bread will quickly become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. The golden crust, paired with the soft, pillowy center, makes it a delightful treat for both beginner and seasoned bakers.

This recipe includes step-by-step instructions to ensure perfect results every time. Get ready to fill your home with the comforting smell of fresh bread baking in the oven!


Why You Will Love Making This Recipe 

  1. Easy to Follow: The recipe is straightforward, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels.
  2. Versatile Side Dish: Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes, from Italian pasta to hearty soups.
  3. Homemade Goodness: Baking your own bread allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: The savory, cheesy, and herby flavors are sure to impress guests at gatherings or family dinners.
  5. Budget-Friendly: Made with pantry staples, this recipe is cost-effective and yields a delicious result.

Making bread at home is not only satisfying but also guarantees a fresher and more flavorful loaf. This bread’s rich aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture make it a must-try recipe.


Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, rosemary)


Equipment Used

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet or loaf pan
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Pastry brush

Directions & Instructions 

  1. Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead by hand for 8-10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
  3. First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
  4. Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf or desired form. Place on a greased baking sheet or loaf pan.
  5. Prepare Topping: Mix minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs in a small bowl.
  6. Add Topping: Brush the shaped dough with olive oil and sprinkle the garlic-Parmesan-herb mixture on top.
  7. Final Rise: Let the dough rise for 30-40 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  8. Bake: Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  9. Cool: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.


Nutritional Information 

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 loaf)
  • Calories: 180
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 300mg

Prep Time and Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Rise Time: 2 hours
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Cheesy Herb Bread: Add shredded mozzarella or cheddar to the topping for extra cheesiness.
  • Whole Wheat Option: Substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier loaf.
  • Spicy Twist: Mix in red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Can I make this bread without a stand mixer?
A: Yes, you can knead the dough by hand. It may take a little more effort, but the results will be just as delicious.

Q: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
A: Absolutely! Use 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs called for in the recipe.

Q: How do I store the bread?
A: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it.


Pro Tips By Elisa

  • Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as evenly.
  • Be patient during the rising process; it’s key to achieving a fluffy texture.
  • Invest in a kitchen thermometer to ensure your water is the right temperature for activating yeast.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or any Italian dish.
  • Use slices to make gourmet garlic toast.
  • Pair with creamy soups or stews for a comforting meal.

Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread

Elisa
Nothing complements a meal quite like fresh, homemade bread. This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is the perfect combination of soft, fluffy texture and rich, savory flavor
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
2 hours 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Course bread
Cuisine American
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Stand mixer (optional)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Baking sheet or loaf pan
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Pastry brush

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon instant yeast
  • 1 cup warm water 110°F/45°C
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs parsley, thyme, rosemary

Instructions
 

  • Activate Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
  • Mix Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms. Knead by hand for 8-10 minutes or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
  • First Rise: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
  • Shape the Bread: Punch down the dough and shape it into a loaf or desired form. Place on a greased baking sheet or loaf pan.
  • Prepare Topping: Mix minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs in a small bowl.
  • Add Topping: Brush the shaped dough with olive oil and sprinkle the garlic-Parmesan-herb mixture on top.
  • Final Rise: Let the dough rise for 30-40 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bake: Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
  • Cool: Let the bread cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or any Italian dish.
Use slices to make gourmet garlic toast.
Keyword Easy Bread Recipes For Beginners