Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and yeast. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Cover and let rise for 1–2 hours, until doubled in size.
Step 2: Shape and Rise
Turn dough onto a floured surface and shape into a round loaf. Place on parchment paper, cover, and let rest for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Bake the Bread
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside. Once hot, carefully transfer the dough (with parchment) into the pot. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove lid and bake another 10–15 minutes until crusty and golden.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter
While bread bakes, mix softened butter with garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and Parmesan (if using).
Step 5: Slather and Serve
When bread is still warm, slice it open and spread generously with garlic butter. The heat will melt the butter into the loaf, filling every nook with flavor.
Tips for Success
- Use a Dutch oven: It traps steam for that bakery-style crust.
- Rest the dough: The longer it rests, the better the flavor and texture.
- Customize the butter: Add red pepper flakes for spice, lemon zest for freshness, or more Parmesan for a cheesy kick.
- Serve warm: Garlic butter melts best on fresh, warm bread.
Serving Suggestions
This garlic butter crusty bread pairs beautifully with:
- A bowl of spaghetti or lasagna.
- Creamy soups like tomato basil or potato leek.
- A charcuterie board as the carb centerpiece.
- Simply on its own with a glass of wine.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Kitchen
Making bread at home feels intimidating, but this recipe proves it can be simple, rewarding, and downright delicious. The combination of rustic bread and garlic butter creates a dish that feels both comforting and elegant—perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or just a treat-yourself moment.
Final Bite
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and dripping with garlic butter, this Garlic Butter Crusty Bread is pure perfection. It’s the kind of recipe that turns everyday meals into memorable ones and makes your kitchen smell like a bakery.
So grab your flour, warm up your oven, and get ready for a bread that’s guaranteed to disappear as soon as it hits the table.