Description

This Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread is a flavorful homemade loaf baked to golden perfection in a cast iron skillet. Infused with fresh garlic and rosemary, and optionally topped with Parmesan cheese, it makes a perfect savory accompaniment to any meal or a delicious snack on its own. The bread is soft on the inside with a crisp crust, and the rustic, hearty texture comes from a simple dough that requires minimal ingredients and effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1 ½ teaspoons salt

Wet Ingredients

1 ½ cups warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil (plus extra for greasing and brushing)

Flavorings

4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, instant yeast, salt, and warm water. Stir the mixture until a shaggy dough forms. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and mix until the dough is fully combined and smooth.
Allow dough to rise: Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap to keep the dough moist. Let it rise in a warm area for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the dough has doubled in size.
Prepare skillet and rest dough: Generously grease a cast iron skillet with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the skillet and gently spread it out to fill the edges. Let the dough rest for 20 to 30 minutes to relax and puff up slightly.
Add toppings: Brush the top of the dough with olive oil. Evenly sprinkle the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and, if using, the grated Parmesan cheese over the surface of the dough.
Bake the bread: Place the skillet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C). Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the bread cool for about 10 minutes in the skillet. Slice and serve the bread warm for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

For a crispier crust, you can preheat the cast iron skillet before adding the dough.
If you prefer, you can substitute fresh rosemary with dried rosemary, but use about 1 teaspoon.
Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory depth to the bread.
This bread is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days.
You can customize the toppings with other herbs or seasonings like thyme or oregano.