Artisan Rosemary and Parmesan Bread (Rustic & Crusty Recipe)

 Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) with a covered heavy Dutch oven inside. Carefully place the parchment paper with the dough ball into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for another 10 minutes until the bread is deeply golden and crusty.

Pro Tip

Baking inside a covered Dutch oven traps the natural moisture of the dough as steam, which guarantees the development of an ultra-crispy crust typical of artisan bakery breads. Let the bread cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing!

Tips for the Best Results

• Do Not Rush Slicing: Cutting into bread that is too hot can compress the still-moist crumb.
• Use Lukewarm Water: Water that is too hot will kill the yeast, while water that is too cold will slow down the rise.
• Control the Crust: For an even glossier crust, you can lightly brush the dough with olive oil before adding the parmesan.
• Flour Your Hands: Flour your hands well to handle the soft, sticky dough with ease.

Easy Recipe Variations

• Garlic and Herb Version: Add minced garlic or roasted garlic powder to the dough for an extra savory kick.
• Olive Variation: Fold 50 g of chopped black or green olives into the dough along with the parmesan.
• Asiago or Pecorino Cheese: Substitute the parmesan with pecorino romano for a sharper, saltier flavor note.

What to Serve With This Bread?

This fragrant rustic loaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes:

• A hot bowl of vegetable soup, pumpkin soup, or Italian minestrone
• A platter of fine cheeses and cured meats
• A small dish of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping
• A comforting stew like a braised chicken or beef pot roast

Storage

Room Temperature: Keep the bread wrapped in a clean kitchen towel or paper bag for 2 to 3 days to preserve its crust.

Freezer Storage: You can slice the fully cooled bread and freeze individual slices in an airtight bag for up to 2 months. Pop the slices straight into the toaster!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?

Yes! You can place the dough ball on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and set a pan of hot water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam during baking.

Can I prepare the dough the night before?

Absolutely, after mixing the dough, you can place it in the refrigerator for 12 to 18 hours for a slow fermentation. This develops even deeper flavors in the bread.

Why is my bread crumb too dense?

A dense crumb usually comes from an insufficient rise time or using water that was too hot and deactivated the yeast.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the joy of sharing warm, fragrant, golden homemade artisan bread. Try this simple recipe today and treat your entire family!