How to Make Crusty Italian Bread at Home

There’s something truly special about the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home, isn’t there? Today, I’m excited to share with you my go-to recipe for crusty Italian bread that’s so easy to make, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to bring a taste of Italy into their home. Plus, it pairs beautifully with those quick family dinners and easy pasta recipes we all love so much.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfectly crusty exterior with a soft, airy interior
• Simple ingredients you probably already have at home
• Ready in just a few hours, making it great for weeknight meals
• Pairs perfectly with your favorite soups, salads, and pasta dishes
• Customizable with herbs or cheese for extra flavor

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious crusty Italian bread:

• 3 ½ cups (450g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 ½ tsp instant yeast
• 1 ½ cups warm water (110°F)

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this crusty Italian bread. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think!

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add the warm water, mixing with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms. Don’t overmix—it should still look a bit rough at this stage.

Step 2: First Rise

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. This is the perfect time to start prepping for those 30-minute meals or your favorite easy pasta recipes!

Step 3: Shape the Dough

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently shape it into a round loaf. Be careful not to overwork the dough. Place it on a piece of parchment paper to get ready for baking.

Step 4: Second Rise

Cover the loaf with a towel and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F, placing a Dutch oven inside to heat. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can use a regular oven-safe pot with a lid.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Carefully place the dough (with parchment) into the preheated Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when it sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are a few tips to ensure your crusty Italian bread turns out perfectly every time:

• Use a Dutch Oven: The steam from the Dutch oven helps create that crispy crust. If you don’t have one, you can also use a regular oven-safe pot with a lid.
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix the dough just until the ingredients come together. Overworking can lead to a dense bread.
• Use the Right Water Temperature: Make sure the water is warm but not hot. The ideal temperature is around 110°F for activating the yeast.

How to Serve

Now comes the best part—serving your freshly baked crusty Italian bread! Here are a few of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Slice it up and serve with a side of olive oil, butter, or your favorite spread
• Dip it in marinara or alfredo sauce (perfect with that Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo Bake you’ve been meaning to try)
• Use it to mop up the juices from your favorite weeknight dinner recipes
• Pair it with a hearty soup or salad for a quick and easy meal

And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try serving it alongside some Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini or Sweet and Spicy Garlic Steak Pasta? The combination is absolutely divine!

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this crusty Italian bread is how easy it is to make ahead and store for later:

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough up to the first rise, then refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
• Storage: Store the cooled bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

And there you have it—your very own homemade crusty Italian bread recipe! Whether you’re enjoying it as a side for your favorite easy pasta recipes or as the star of your next weeknight dinner, this bread is sure to become a family favorite. So go ahead, get baking, and let me know how it turns out in the comments below!