Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Golden and crusty on the outside with a fluffy, tender interior, this Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread is the kind of side that might just outshine your main dish. Infused with rich garlic butter and aromatic rosemary, every slice bursts with flavor, making it nearly impossible to stop at just one piece. Whether served alongside a hearty soup or as the centerpiece of your brunch spread, it brings both warmth and comfort straight from the oven.

What sets this bread apart is the ease of preparation. You don’t need a stand mixer or a bread machine—just a cast iron skillet and a little patience. The skillet helps create that irresistible crispy crust while locking in moisture for the softest crumb. No kneading required, and it’s beginner-friendly, yet sophisticated enough to impress your dinner guests.

---

What Kind of Skillet Should I Use?

For the best results, opt for a well-seasoned cast iron skillet. It distributes heat evenly, giving the bread that beautifully caramelized crust. If you don’t have cast iron, an oven-safe heavy-bottomed skillet or baking dish will still work, though you might not get quite the same depth of flavor or crunch.

---

Ingredients for the Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread

• All-Purpose Flour – This is your base. It gives the bread structure and chew without making it dense.
• Instant Yeast – Quick and efficient, it helps the dough rise in under two hours.
• Warm Water – Activates the yeast and hydrates the flour to form a soft dough.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and keeps the crumb moist.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic melts into the dough and crisps on top, creating intense savory bites.
• Fresh Rosemary – The star herb here. It adds woodsy, aromatic notes and pairs beautifully with garlic.
• Salt – Enhances flavor and balances the savory elements.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional) – Adds a subtle umami depth and crispy top if you sprinkle it just before baking.

---

How To Make the Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, instant yeast, salt, and warm water. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Drizzle in a bit of olive oil and mix again until fully incorporated. The dough should be slightly sticky.

Step 2: Let It Rise

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. A warm kitchen speeds this up.

Step 3: Prepare the Skillet

Generously coat the bottom and sides of your cast iron skillet with olive oil. Transfer the dough into the skillet and gently stretch it to fill the pan. Let it rest again for 20-30 minutes to puff slightly.

Step 4: Flavor Toppings

Brush the top of the dough with olive oil. Sprinkle minced garlic and chopped rosemary evenly over the top. If you’re using parmesan, now is the time to add a generous sprinkle.

Step 5: Bake

Bake the bread in a preheated 400°F (200°C) oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crisp. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve

Let the bread cool in the skillet for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm to enjoy its full flavor and texture.

---

How to Serve and Store Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread

This bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a starter with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping, or pair it with soups like creamy tomato basil or hearty stews. It also makes a delicious base for sandwiches or a rustic side for brunch spreads.

To store, wrap any leftover bread in foil or an airtight container. It keeps well at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze individual slices and reheat them in the oven or toaster when needed.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my yeast is still active?

If you’re unsure, dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. After 5-10 minutes, it should foam up. If it doesn’t, the yeast may be expired.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute with dried rosemary, but use only about one-third the amount. Dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Is it okay to use bread flour instead of all-purpose?

Absolutely! Bread flour will yield a slightly chewier texture, which some people prefer.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

You can prepare the dough the night before and let it rise slowly in the fridge. Bring it to room temperature before transferring to the skillet.

What if I don’t have a cast iron skillet?

An oven-safe baking dish or metal pan will work. Just be sure to grease it well and monitor the baking time, as it may vary.

Can I make this gluten-free?

You can experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but the texture and rise may differ from the original recipe.

---

Want More Bread Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this rustic garlic rosemary skillet bread, you’ll probably enjoy these other flavorful creations:

• Homemade Naan Bread for pillowy-soft, skillet-cooked flatbread.
• Cranberry Brie Pull Apart Bread if you like your bread with a festive twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes to pair with this bread for a full rustic dinner.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites for more garlicky goodness.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta if you’re craving a pasta pairing.

For more cozy, rustic recipes and daily inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest: Life with Nina.

---

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it anytime.

And I’d love to hear how your bread turned out! Did you sprinkle extra cheese on top? Try another herb besides rosemary?

Drop your questions or your twist in the comments. Let’s keep inspiring each other to bake better, bolder breads!

---

Print