This Rosemary Garlic Skillet Bread is a golden, crusty, bakery-style bread baked right at home with minimal effort. Soft and airy on the inside with a crisp, flavorful crust on the outside, this bread is infused with fresh rosemary, roasted garlic, olive oil, and sea salt—making it perfect for dipping, sandwiches, or serving alongside soups and Mediterranean meals.
What makes this recipe truly special is that it’s no-knead, beginner-friendly, and baked in a cast-iron skillet for unbeatable texture. It’s ideal for home bakers looking for artisan bread, healthy homemade bread, or Mediterranean-style recipes with high nutritional value.
Why You’ll Love This Skillet Bread
Homemade bread isn’t just comforting—it’s healthier when made with simple ingredients and quality olive oil. This rosemary garlic bread offers:
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A crispy golden crust without deep frying
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Natural fermentation for better digestion
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Aromatic herbs with anti-inflammatory benefits
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No preservatives or additives
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A rustic artisan look perfect for social media or food blogs
It’s perfect for clean eating, Mediterranean diet followers, and anyone who loves restaurant-quality bread at home.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
Dry Ingredients
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3 cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for extra chew)
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
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½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
Wet Ingredients
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1¼ cups warm water (not hot)
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2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
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2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
Topping
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon flaky sea salt
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1–2 cloves roasted garlic, minced
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Fresh rosemary sprigs (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, rosemary, and thyme. In a separate bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until slightly foamy.
Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. No kneading is required.
Cover the bowl with a kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 1–1½ hours, or until doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven & Skillet
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Place a cast-iron skillet inside the oven for 10 minutes to heat.
Carefully remove the skillet and brush generously with olive oil.
3. Shape the Dough
Transfer the risen dough into the hot skillet using lightly oiled hands or a spatula. Gently shape into a round loaf—do not deflate too much air.
Drizzle olive oil on top, sprinkle sea salt, roasted garlic, and extra rosemary. Score the top with a sharp knife for even baking.
4. Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the bread is deeply golden and sounds hollow when tapped.
For extra crust, brush lightly with olive oil and bake an additional 5 minutes.
Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serving Ideas
This skillet bread pairs beautifully with:
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Olive oil and balsamic vinegar
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Tomato soup or lentil soup
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Mediterranean mezze platters
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Grilled chicken, fish, or roasted vegetables
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Cheese boards and hummus
Health & Nutrition Benefits
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Olive oil supports heart health
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Rosemary contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
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Homemade bread is lower in sodium than store-bought
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No refined sugars or preservatives
This makes it a smart option for those following a Mediterranean diet, anti-inflammatory eating plan, or clean-eating lifestyle.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
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Store at room temperature for 2 days, wrapped in cloth
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Refrigerate up to 5 days
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Freeze slices for up to 2 months
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Reheat in oven or toaster for best texture
Related Questions (High-CPM SEO)
Is homemade skillet bread healthier than store-bought bread?
Yes. Homemade bread avoids preservatives, excessive sodium, and refined additives. You control ingredients, making it healthier and fresher.
Can I make rosemary garlic bread without a cast-iron skillet?
Absolutely. You can use a heavy oven-safe pan, Dutch oven, or baking tray—though cast iron gives the best crust.
Is rosemary bread good for digestion?
Yes. Rosemary helps digestion and reduces inflammation, especially when paired with olive oil.
Can I make this bread whole wheat?
Yes. Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour. Add 1–2 tablespoons extra water for softness.
Does no-knead bread taste like artisan bakery bread?
Yes. The slow rise develops flavor similar to professional artisan bread.
Can diabetics eat homemade rosemary bread?
In moderation. Pairing with healthy fats and protein helps control blood sugar levels.
What makes bread crusty in the oven?
High heat, steam, and olive oil contribute to a crispy, golden crust.
Final Thoughts
This Rosemary Garlic Skillet Bread is proof that bakery-quality bread can be made at home with minimal effort. It’s rustic, flavorful, and versatile—perfect for everyday meals or special occasions.
