A warm, crusty loaf packed with savory garlic, rich Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs, this Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is the kind of comfort food I love having fresh out of the oven. It’s a quick bread recipe—no yeast or rising time needed—making it a fantastic choice when I want something hearty and flavorful in under an hour. Whether I pair it with a bowl of soup, a plate of pasta, or just tear off a slice to dip in olive oil, this bread never disappoints.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1/3 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
One egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 1/2 cups milk (or unsweetened dairy-free milk)
Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, I whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, garlic powder, oregano, basil, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
In a separate bowl, I whisk the milk, olive oil, and egg until everything is smooth and combined.
I pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, making sure not to overmix.
Then, I transfer the batter to the prepared pan and smooth out the top.
I bake the bread for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
After baking, I let the loaf cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before moving it to a wire rack. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch.
I slice it and serve while still warm or let it come to room temperature.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 10 slices.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Calories: Approximately 210 kcal per slice
Variations
Cheese swap: Sometimes I substitute Parmesan with sharp cheddar or Asiago for a different cheesy profile.
Add-ins: I like folding in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or even a handful of sautéed onions for an extra punch of flavor.
Gluten-free: I’ve had success using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a wheat-free version.
Vegan: Replacing the egg with a flax egg and using dairy-free milk and vegan Parmesan makes it 100% plant-based.
Spicy kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne gives it some heat.
Storage/Reheating
I store any leftover bread wrapped in foil or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the fridge for up to 5 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–10 minutes or pop them in the toaster for a crisp finish. For longer storage, I freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and foil—perfect for quick snacks later.
FAQs
What’s the texture of this bread like?
This is a quick bread, so it has a moist, tender crumb with a slightly crisp crust. It’s not chewy like yeast bread, but it’s rich, savory, and satisfying.
Can I make this recipe without cheese?
Yes, though the flavor will change. I’ve made it without Parmesan, and while it’s still good, I recommend adding nutritional yeast or vegan cheese for that umami depth.
How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
I check by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean. Also, the top should be golden and firm to the touch.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely. I like using fresh herbs when I have them—just triple the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Is it okay to make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, it holds up well. I often bake it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. A quick reheat before serving brings it back to life.
Conclusion
This Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread is one of those simple recipes that delivers big on flavor and comfort. I love how quickly it comes together and how versatile it is for meals or snacking. Whether I’m serving it with dinner, brunch, or just on its own with a smear of butter, it always hits the spot.
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Garlic Parmesan Herb Bread
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- Author: Sophia
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick, savory, no-yeast bread packed with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic herbs. Perfect alongside soup, pasta, or as a standalone snack.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 cups milk (or unsweetened dairy-free milk)
1/3 cup olive oil
1 egg (or flax egg for vegan option)
Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, garlic powder, oregano, basil, parsley, and Parmesan cheese.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, olive oil, and egg until smooth and combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Use a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Replace the egg and dairy with flax egg, dairy-free milk, and vegan cheese for a vegan option.
Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or sautéed onions for extra flavor.
Store at room temperature for 2 days, in the fridge for 5 days, or freeze individual slices.
Reheat in a 300°F oven or toaster before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
