Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread is a crusty, golden loaf with a perfect blend of garlic and sharp Parmesan cheese baked right in. The outside is beautifully crisp, while the inside stays soft and chewy, making every bite so satisfying. The aroma of fresh garlic mixed with cheesy goodness fills the kitchen and makes it hard to wait until it’s cool enough to slice.
I love making this bread when I want something simple yet special. It’s one of those things that makes any meal feel a little more homemade and comforting. I usually slice it up warm and butter it lightly, but it’s just as delicious on its own. A quick tip from me: don’t skip letting the bread rest before cutting—it helps keep the soft, fluffy texture inside.
This Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread is my go-to for dinners when friends come over or when I just want to treat myself. It pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or even just a bowl of pasta. There’s something really cozy about tearing off a piece, biting into the rich flavors, and knowing you made it fresh from your own oven. It turns a regular day into a small celebration!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Artisan Bread: This bread’s crusty outside and soft inside make a great base. If you can’t find an artisan loaf, try a sourdough boule or a sturdy French bread. Avoid super soft sandwich bread here because it won’t hold up well.
Butter: Melted butter helps the garlic and Parmesan stick and adds richness. You can swap with olive oil for a lighter, more Mediterranean flavor, but butter adds that classic comforting taste I love.
Garlic: Fresh garlic minced finely gives the best flavor punch. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can work, but fresh makes the bread truly pop.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan melts nicely on top and gives a sharp, nutty taste. If you want something different, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are good alternatives.
Fresh Parsley: Adds color and a mild fresh note at the end. If you don’t have parsley, chives or basil can also work nicely.
How Do You Cut and Stuff the Bread Without Tearing It?
Cutting the bread just right is key here. You want to slice deep enough to create cubes but leave the bottom crust intact so the loaf holds together.
- Use a serrated knife to avoid crushing the loaf.
- Make vertical cuts about 1 to 1.5 inches apart, then horizontal cuts creating a grid pattern.
- Don’t cut all the way through—stop before the base crust.
- When adding the butter mixture, gently pull apart each cube to get the flavors in evenly without breaking the whole loaf.
This way, the bread stays in one piece during baking but allows the garlic butter and cheese to soak in every nook. It’s a simple trick that makes serving and tearing pieces off super easy and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Serrated bread knife – perfect for cutting clean grid lines without squashing the bread.
- Baking sheet – catches any drips and helps the bread bake evenly.
- Small mixing bowl – easy to mix the garlic butter and seasonings together.
- Basting brush or spoon – for spreading the garlic butter deep into the bread cuts.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap Parmesan for mozzarella or cheddar for a gooey, melty twist.
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean vibe.
- Mix fresh rosemary or thyme into the garlic butter for a fragrant herby flavor.
- Stir in red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat with your garlic bread.
How to Make Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread – Fresh from the Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 round artisan bread loaf (about 12-14 oz)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for extra garlic flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 15-20 minutes to bake. So within around 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, cheesy, garlicky bread ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Slice the Bread:
First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up. Then, use a serrated bread knife to carefully cut your artisan bread loaf. Make vertical cuts about 1 to 1.5 inches apart, then horizontal cuts, forming a grid of cubes. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom crust—the loaf should stay whole at the base.
2. Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture and Season the Bread:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and garlic powder (if using). Gently pull apart the bread sections just enough to drizzle or brush the garlic butter generously into all the crevices, making sure every piece gets flavorful.
3. Add Cheese and Bake:
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, letting some fall into the cuts. Place the bread on a baking sheet, or wrap it loosely in aluminum foil to keep it moist while baking. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts and the bread turns golden and slightly crispy around the edges.
4. Finish and Serve:
When the bread comes out of the oven, sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley on top. Let it cool a few minutes so it’s easier to handle. Then tear the bread into individual cheesy, garlicky chunks and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Artisan Bread for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the bread at room temperature before slicing and preparing. This helps ensure even baking and prevents sogginess.
How Should I Store Leftover Parmesan Garlic Artisan Bread?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm it briefly in the oven at 300°F for 5-7 minutes.
Can I Make This Bread Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the garlic butter mixture and slice the bread earlier in the day, then bake it just before serving to keep it fresh and crispy.
What Can I Substitute for Parmesan Cheese?
Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese work well as substitutes. They offer a similar sharp, salty flavor that complements the garlic butter beautifully.
