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Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread with Parmesan and Garlic

A freshly baked loaf of artisan bread, sliced in half to show the open, airy crumb structure.

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You can bake bakery-style artisan bread at home without kneading. This simple recipe uses a Dutch oven to create a loaf with a crusty exterior and a soft interior, featuring optional Parmesan and garlic flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 1 1/2 cups cool water
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and yeast. If using, mix in the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and rosemary until combined.
  2. Add the cool water to the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Do not overmix; the dough will be sticky.
  3. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap. Let the dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours. This long fermentation develops the flavor.
  4. After the long rest, lightly flour a work surface. Gently scrape the dough out of the bowl. Fold the dough over itself two or three times to form a rough ball. Do not knead.
  5. Place the dough ball seam-side down on a piece of parchment paper. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
  6. About 20 minutes before the second rest ends, place a 5- to 6-quart Dutch oven with its lid inside your oven. Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
  7. Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Lift the dough using the parchment paper and gently lower it into the hot pot. Cover with the lid.
  8. Bake covered for 30 minutes.
  9. Remove the lid. Continue baking for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown.
  10. Carefully remove the bread from the Dutch oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Notes

  • Using cool water helps control the fermentation rate during the long rest period.
  • For a crispier crust, you can place a metal pan on the bottom rack during preheating and pour 1 cup of hot water into it immediately after placing the dough in the Dutch oven.
  • This recipe is excellent for beginners learning about yeast bread recipes.

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