Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread

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Golden, crusty, and infused with aromatic rosemary and garlic, this Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread brings that cozy bakery warmth right into your kitchen. It’s the kind of bread that doesn’t just sit on the side of a plate—it steals the spotlight. With its crisp outer edges and fluffy center, every bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a tender chew. It’s rustic, yes, but also wonderfully sophisticated in flavor.

Whether you’re pairing it with a creamy pasta dish, serving it alongside a hearty soup, or just tearing off pieces to dip in olive oil, this skillet bread is all about comfort with a touch of flair. And the best part? You don’t need to be a bread-baking expert to make it. With a few simple tools and steps, your kitchen will smell like a corner bakery in no time.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this delicious skillet bread, having the right tools will make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cast Iron Skillet: This is the star tool. It gives the bread its golden, crispy bottom and perfectly rustic edges. No other pan creates that same irresistible texture.
• Mixing Bowls: Use one large bowl for mixing and rising the dough. Glass or stainless steel works best.
• Wooden Spoon or Dough Whisk: For stirring together your ingredients without overworking the dough.
• Plastic Wrap or Clean Towel: To cover the dough during its rising phase and keep it moist.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in baking, so grab your set.
• Sharp Knife or Dough Blade: Helpful for scoring the top of the dough before baking for that artisan look.

These tools simplify the baking process, ensuring you end up with a perfectly baked, fragrant loaf every single time.

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Ingredients for the Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread

Each ingredient in this bread recipe plays a crucial role in building flavor and structure. Here’s what you’ll need:

• All-Purpose Flour – This is the backbone of your bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• Instant Yeast – Gives the bread its beautiful rise and airy texture without a long proofing process.
• Warm Water – Activates the yeast and brings the dough together.
• Olive Oil – Adds richness to the dough and creates a golden, flavorful crust.
• Salt – Enhances all the other flavors and balances the taste.
• Fresh Garlic (minced) – Infuses the bread with that classic, savory aroma we love.
• Fresh Rosemary (chopped) – Adds earthy fragrance and a pine-like flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic.
• Coarse Sea Salt (for topping) – Brings that artisan finish and a burst of salty crunch on top.

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How To Make the Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread

Step 1: Mix the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Stir in the warm water and olive oil until the dough comes together. It should be sticky but manageable. You can use a wooden spoon or a dough whisk here.

Step 2: First Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 3: Prepare the Skillet

Grease your cast iron skillet generously with olive oil. Transfer the risen dough into the skillet and gently press it to fill the pan evenly.

Step 4: Second Rise

Cover the skillet loosely and let the dough rest again for about 30 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 5: Add Flavor Toppings

Once risen, dimple the dough gently with your fingers. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top and sprinkle with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and coarse sea salt.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with butter or olive oil, or enjoy as is.

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How to Serve and Store Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread

This skillet bread is best served warm, right out of the oven. The golden crust crackles under a knife, while the interior stays soft and tender. Slice it up and serve it alongside soups like creamy tomato or hearty chicken stew, or pair it with pasta drenched in Alfredo or marinara. It also makes a flavorful base for bruschetta or a rustic sandwich.

To store leftovers, let the bread cool completely, then wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven to bring back that crispy edge and soft center.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

You can use an oven-safe nonstick or heavy-bottomed skillet, though the texture might not be quite as crisp. A cake pan is also a decent backup.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes! Use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary if you don’t have fresh. The flavor is slightly more intense, so a little goes a long way.

How do I make it more garlicky?

For an extra punch, roast the garlic first or add a touch of garlic powder into the dough itself.

Can I add cheese to this bread?

Absolutely! Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan on top just before baking for a cheesy crust.

Do I need to knead the dough?

Not at all. This is a no-knead bread, which keeps things simple and rustic. Just mix and let it rise.

Can I make this gluten-free?

You can try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, but results may vary. Look for one designed for yeast baking for best results.

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Want More Bread Recipes with Flavor?

If you loved this Rustic Garlic Rosemary Skillet Bread, you’ll definitely want to try these other flavorful bread recipes from Life With Olivia:

• Soft and Fluffy Homemade Naan Bread – Perfect for dipping or wrapping around your favorite fillings.
• Cinnamon Donut Bread Recipe – A sweet twist that’s like a donut and a loaf all in one.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – While not bread, this dish pairs beautifully with skillet bread on the side.
• Mexican Cornbread Casserole – A hearty and spicy way to mix cornbread with dinner.
• Cottage Cheese Egg Bites Recipe – For a protein-packed breakfast to pair with your bread.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic or sprinkle extra rosemary? Maybe you topped it with flaky salt or even cheese?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Feel free to share tips, swaps, or questions—we’re all here to bake better, together.

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