Crusty Italian Bread Recipe | The Ultimate Homemade Loaf

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of fresh bread filling your kitchen. This crusty Italian bread recipe is everything you love about homemade bread: a golden crackly crust, soft and fluffy center, and the kind of comfort that makes you want to tear off a piece right out of the oven. It’s easy, it’s cozy, and it transforms the simplest meal into something special. Serve it with soups, pastas, or even just a swipe of butter, and you’ll understand why this loaf is unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Crusty Italian Bread

This crusty Italian bread is beginner-friendly yet tastes like it came from a bakery. You only need pantry staples and a bit of patience. The crust bakes up beautifully crisp while the inside stays airy and chewy. It’s the perfect partner for hearty soups, pasta dinners, or even as the base for sandwiches. Imagine dipping a slice into a warm bowl of Tuscan Chickpea Soup on a chilly evening. The combination is nothing short of perfect.

Ingredients for Crusty Italian Bread

Pantry Essentials

All purpose flour
Active dry yeast
Sugar
Salt
Warm water
Cornmeal for dusting

Optional Add Ins

Fresh rosemary, thyme, or minced garlic for flavor twists

Full Ingredient List
3 ½ cups all purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 packet or 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
1 ½ cups warm water about 110°F
Cornmeal for dusting

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 Prepare the Yeast Mixture

Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Stir and let sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy.

Step 2 Mix the Dough

Add flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms.

Step 3 Knead Until Smooth

Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 4 First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 2 hours until doubled in size.

Step 5 Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the dough, shape into a round or oval loaf, and place on a cornmeal dusted baking sheet. Cover and let rise for 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 6 Bake with Steam

Preheat oven to 450°F. Place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack for steam. Score the top of the loaf with a sharp knife. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until golden brown and hollow sounding when tapped.

Step 7 Cool and Slice

Let cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy with a drizzle of olive oil or dip into Pumpkin Pasta Bake for a hearty Italian style dinner.

Tips for Baking the Best Crusty Italian Bread

Weigh your flour with a kitchen scale for accuracy. Let the dough rise in a warm draft free spot to get the best lift. Don’t skip the steam in your oven as it’s the secret to that beautiful golden crust. For a softer crust, brush with melted butter right after baking. This bread is just as delicious when paired with a bowl of Roasted Butternut Squash Soup.

Variations You Can Try

Garlic Bread Add fresh minced garlic or garlic powder for a savory twist.
Herb Infused Stir in rosemary, oregano, or basil for Italian flair.
Cheesy Delight Fold in Parmesan or mozzarella for cheesy bites.
Whole Wheat Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for a nutty depth.

Serving Ideas

Slice warm and dip in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Serve with pasta and tomato sauce for a classic pairing.
Top slices with avocado or melted cheese for a quick snack.
Pile onto a charcuterie board with meats and cheeses for entertaining.

FAQ

Let’s do it

Baking this crusty Italian bread is a joyful kitchen ritual that fills your home with warmth. Share a loaf with family, pair it with your favorite comfort foods, and don’t forget to leave a comment if you try it. Follow us on Pinterest for more cozy recipes or join the fun on Facebook!

Print