Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe

After a long week, nothing quite beats the smell of freshly baked bread wafting through the house. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe that has become an instant family favorite – Parmesan Bread Bites. Inspired by those irresistible garlic parmesan bites from Domino’s, these homemade versions are not only incredibly easy to make but also bursting with flavor. My kids, who are usually picky eaters, devoured them in minutes, and my husband declared them the perfect appetizer for game night. What I love most is how versatile they are; equally satisfying as a snack on their own or dipped in warm marinara sauce. The combination of buttery, garlicky goodness with the salty parmesan crust is simply addictive. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s guaranteed to disappear quickly, look no further. These Parmesan Bread Bites are your answer.

Ingredients

Creating these delectable Parmesan Bread Bites starts with quality ingredients, and while the list is simple, each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of flavor and texture. We can break down the ingredients into three key categories: the foundational pizza dough, the flavorful garlic butter, and the finishing touches that elevate these bites to gourmet status.

Homemade Pizza Dough

The heart of these Parmesan Bread Bites lies in the pizza dough. While you could opt for store-bought dough in a pinch, I wholeheartedly recommend making your own homemade pizza dough. The difference in taste and texture is simply undeniable. Homemade dough offers a superior chewiness and a more complex flavor profile that you just can’t replicate with pre-made options.

• Why Homemade Dough Matters: Using homemade dough allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and avoiding any unwanted additives or preservatives that can often be found in store-bought varieties. The process of making dough, even though it requires a bit of time for rising, is incredibly rewarding. The active dry yeast works its magic, creating a light and airy texture that’s essential for these bites. The simple combination of flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt transforms into something truly special.
• Recipe Flexibility: The recipe calls for “Homemade pizza dough,” which is wonderfully versatile. You can use your go-to pizza dough recipe or easily find countless reliable recipes online. Whether you prefer a classic Neapolitan-style dough or a slightly richer dough with a touch of honey or sugar, the choice is yours. The key is to have a dough that rises well and bakes to a soft yet slightly crisp texture. Consider experimenting with different types of flour too. Bread flour will yield a chewier bite, while all-purpose flour will result in a slightly softer texture.
• Make Ahead Option: One of the beauties of homemade pizza dough is that it can be made in advance. You can prepare the dough and let it rise, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. This makes it incredibly convenient for busy schedules. Just remember to bring the dough back to room temperature before working with it to ensure it’s pliable and easy to shape. You can even freeze pizza dough for longer storage, making it a fantastic make-ahead component for these bread bites.

Garlic Butter

The garlic butter is the soul of these Parmesan Bread Bites, infusing them with that irresistible savory and aromatic punch. It’s a simple mixture, but the quality of each ingredient significantly impacts the final flavor.

• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter is crucial because it allows you to control the saltiness of the garlic butter. Salted butter can be inconsistent in its salt content, and since we are adding salt separately, starting with unsalted butter gives you precise control over the flavor. Make sure the butter is at room temperature, as this is essential for it to cream smoothly with the garlic and other seasonings, creating a homogenous and easily spreadable mixture. Room temperature butter incorporates air, leading to a lighter and fluffier garlic butter, which will brush onto the bread bites more evenly.
• Minced Garlic (or Garlic Salt): Freshly minced garlic is always preferred for its robust and pungent flavor. The aroma of fresh garlic sautéing in butter is intoxicating and adds a depth of flavor that garlic powder simply can’t match. Aim for finely minced garlic to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the butter and releases its flavor effectively during baking. However, if you are short on time or prefer a milder garlic flavor, garlic salt is a convenient alternative. If using garlic salt, remember to adjust the amount of additional salt in the recipe to avoid making the bites too salty. The recipe suggests using 1 teaspoon of garlic salt as a substitute, which is a good starting point, but taste and adjust according to your preference.
• Salt: Salt is a flavor enhancer and is critical for balancing the richness of the butter and the sweetness of the dough. The recipe calls for ¼ + ⅛ teaspoon of salt, which is a precise measurement. Using the correct amount of salt is important to prevent the bread bites from tasting bland or overly salty. If you are using garlic salt, you might need to reduce the amount of added salt to avoid over-salting. Taste the garlic butter mixture before brushing it onto the dough and adjust salt if needed.
• Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs that typically includes oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. It adds a classic Mediterranean flavor profile that complements the garlic and parmesan beautifully. The herbaceous notes of Italian seasoning bring complexity and depth to the garlic butter, making it more than just garlic and butter. You can find pre-made Italian seasoning blends at most grocery stores, or you can create your own blend if you have these dried herbs on hand.
• Dried Parsley (or Fresh Parsley): Parsley adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal to the garlic butter. Dried parsley is convenient and works well, but fresh parsley, when finely minced, offers a brighter and more vibrant flavor. If using fresh parsley, remember to use about double the amount compared to dried parsley, as fresh herbs are less concentrated in flavor. The recipe suggests 2 tablespoons of minced fresh parsley as an alternative to 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, which is a good guideline. Whether you choose dried or fresh, parsley contributes a subtle herbaceous note and a pop of color to the finished bread bites.

Additional Ingredients

These are the final touches that transform good Parmesan Bread Bites into truly exceptional ones.

• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is the star topping that gives these bites their name and signature flavor. Using freshly grated parmesan is highly recommended over pre-shredded parmesan. Freshly grated parmesan has a superior flavor and melts more beautifully, creating that desirable crispy, cheesy crust. Pre-shredded parmesan often contains cellulose to prevent clumping, which can hinder melting and affect the texture. Invest in a block of good quality parmesan cheese and grate it yourself for the best results. The recipe suggests 4 to 6 tablespoons of grated parmesan, which allows for flexibility depending on how cheesy you want your bites to be. Don’t be shy with the parmesan – a generous shower of cheese is what makes these bites so irresistible.
• Marinara Sauce for Dipping: Marinara sauce is the classic dipping accompaniment for garlic bread bites, and for good reason. The tangy tomato sauce provides a delightful contrast to the rich and buttery bread bites, cutting through the richness and adding another layer of flavor. You can use your favorite store-bought marinara sauce or make your own homemade marinara for an even more elevated experience. A simple marinara sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and herbs is easy to prepare and enhances the overall dish. Warm marinara sauce is particularly enjoyable for dipping, creating a comforting and satisfying appetizer or snack.

Instructions

Creating these mouthwatering Parmesan Bread Bites is a straightforward process, broken down into easy-to-follow steps. From preparing the baking sheet to the final sprinkle of parmesan, each stage is crucial for achieving perfectly golden, garlicky, and cheesy bites.

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: The first step is to ensure your bread bites don’t stick to the baking sheet. Grease a large sheet pan generously with olive oil or use a non-stick cooking spray. Olive oil adds a subtle flavor and helps create a slightly crispy bottom, while non-stick spray is a quick and convenient option. Make sure to coat the entire surface of the baking sheet to prevent any sticking. Setting the prepared baking sheet aside allows you to focus on the dough preparation.
2. Prepare the Pizza Dough: Follow your chosen pizza dough recipe to make the dough. This typically involves combining flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt, kneading the dough until smooth, and allowing it to rise in a warm place until doubled in size. The rising time can vary depending on the temperature of your kitchen and the type of yeast used. A good rise is essential for light and airy bread bites. Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release some of the air, but avoid deflating it completely, as you still want some airiness in the final product. Transfer the dough to a lightly floured kitchen counter or work surface for the next step.
3. Cut the Dough into Bite-Sized Pieces: Using a sharp knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into approximately 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Aim for relatively uniform sizes so that the bites bake evenly. The size can be adjusted slightly to your preference, but 1-inch pieces are a good starting point for bite-sized appetizers.
4. Arrange Dough Bites on Baking Sheet and Rest: Transfer the cut dough pieces to the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart in a single layer. Spacing is important to allow for proper air circulation and even baking. Overcrowding the baking sheet can lead to unevenly cooked and potentially soggy bread bites. Once arranged, wrap the baking sheet loosely with a clean kitchen towel. Place the baking sheet in the warmest part of your kitchen for about 30 minutes to allow the dough bites to rest and rise slightly again. This second rise, often called proofing, helps create a lighter and fluffier texture.
5. Prepare the Garlic Butter and Preheat Oven: While the dough bites are resting, prepare the garlic butter. In a small bowl, combine the room temperature unsalted butter, minced garlic (or garlic salt), salt, Italian seasoning, and dried parsley (or fresh parsley). Mix all ingredients together until well combined and creamy. Set the garlic butter aside. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating the oven ensures that it reaches the correct temperature before baking, which is crucial for proper baking and browning.
6. Brush with Garlic Butter and Bake: Unwrap the kitchen towel from the baking sheet. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the garlic butter on top of all the dough bites. Make sure to distribute the garlic butter evenly over each bite. You will be using the remaining butter later, so don’t use it all at this stage. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown in color. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the bread bites and adjust baking time as needed. The golden brown color indicates that they are cooked through and have a slightly crisp exterior.
7. Second Butter Brush and Parmesan Sprinkle: Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and place it on a wire rack. Immediately brush the tops of the hot bread bites with the remaining garlic butter. If the butter has thickened while the bites were baking, microwave it for a few seconds to melt it again for easier brushing. The heat from the baked bites will help melt the butter and allow it to soak in. Immediately after brushing with butter, sprinkle a generous amount of grated parmesan cheese on top of the bread bites. The heat will melt the parmesan cheese slightly, creating a delicious cheesy topping.
8. Serve Hot: Serve the Parmesan Bread Bites hot, ideally immediately after they are finished baking and topping. They are best enjoyed warm when they are at their softest and most flavorful. Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of warm, garlicky, cheesy bread bites and tangy marinara sauce is simply irresistible.

Nutrition Facts

These Parmesan Bread Bites, while incredibly delicious, are best enjoyed as a treat in moderation. Understanding the nutritional content can help you make informed choices about incorporating them into your diet.

• Servings: The recipe is designed to yield approximately 46 bite-sized pieces. This makes it ideal for serving a crowd or having plenty of leftovers for snacking. The serving size can be adjusted based on your needs.
• Calories per Serving: According to the recipe, each bite contains approximately 49 calories. This is an estimate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used, particularly the type of pizza dough and the amount of parmesan cheese. If you are using a richer pizza dough or adding more parmesan, the calorie count per bite may be slightly higher.

It’s important to note that these are estimates and may not be perfectly precise. For more accurate nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators, inputting the specific ingredients and quantities you used. However, the provided figures give a good general understanding of the calorie content per serving. Keep in mind that these bread bites are primarily carbohydrates and fats, with a moderate amount of protein from the parmesan cheese.

Preparation Time

Time is often a factor when deciding what to cook, and these Parmesan Bread Bites strike a great balance between effort and reward. The preparation time is relatively short, especially considering the delicious outcome.

• Prep Time: The active preparation time for this recipe is approximately 10 minutes. This includes the time it takes to make the garlic butter and cut the pizza dough into pieces. The prep time is minimal, making this recipe a great option for a quick appetizer or snack.
• Cook Time: The baking time is approximately 23 minutes. This includes the initial 20 minutes of baking and a few extra minutes for the final browning and cheese melting. The cook time is relatively short, ensuring that you can have these warm and delicious bites ready in under half an hour of active cooking time.
• Resting Time: There is a resting time of 30 minutes for the dough bites after they are arranged on the baking sheet. This resting time is crucial for allowing the dough to proof slightly, resulting in a lighter texture. While this is passive time, it’s important to factor it into your overall preparation schedule.

Total Time: Considering all components, the total time from start to finish, including prep, resting, and cook time, is roughly around 1 hour and 3 minutes. This is a reasonable timeframe for creating a homemade appetizer that is sure to impress. If you are using pre-made pizza dough, you can significantly reduce the total time, making it an even quicker option.

How to Serve

Parmesan Bread Bites are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways, making them perfect for different occasions.

• Classic Appetizer: Serve them warm as a classic appetizer before a meal. They are a wonderful way to kick off a dinner party or a casual family gathering.
• Game Day Snack: These bites are an ideal snack for game day. Their bite-sized nature makes them easy to eat while watching sports, and they are always a crowd-pleaser.
• Party Food: Perfect for parties and potlucks. They are easy to transport and serve, and their delicious flavor ensures they will be a hit with guests of all ages.
• Side Dish: Serve them as a side dish alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads. They complement Italian-inspired meals particularly well and add a comforting carb element to the meal.
• With Marinara Sauce: The classic and most recommended way to serve them is with warm marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce enhances the flavor and adds a delightful dipping experience.
• Other Dipping Sauces: Get creative and offer other dipping sauces such as:
  • Ranch Dressing: A creamy and cool contrast to the warm, garlicky bites.
  • Garlic Aioli: Enhance the garlic flavor with a rich and creamy garlic aioli.
  • Pesto: A vibrant and herbaceous pesto adds a fresh and flavorful dimension.
  • Spicy Cheese Dip: For those who like a kick, a spicy cheese dip can be a fantastic pairing.
• Cheese Board Addition: Incorporate them into a cheese board or charcuterie platter for added variety and a warm, carb element alongside cheeses, meats, and olives.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Parmesan Bread Bites are absolutely perfect every time, here are some additional tips and tricks:

1. Room Temperature Butter is Key: Always use room temperature butter for the garlic butter. Room temperature butter creams together smoothly, creating a lighter and more spreadable mixture, which is crucial for even distribution and optimal flavor.
2. Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the bread bites while they are baking and avoid overbaking them. Overbaked bites can become dry and hard. Bake until they are golden brown and just cooked through for the best texture.
3. Freshly Grated Parmesan is Superior: For the best flavor and melting quality, always use freshly grated parmesan cheese. Pre-shredded parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder melting and affect the taste.
4. Adjust Garlic to Taste: The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, but you can adjust this to your preference. If you love garlic, feel free to add more. If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the amount or use garlic salt as suggested.
5. Warm the Marinara Sauce: Warming the marinara sauce before serving enhances the dipping experience. Warm marinara sauce is more comforting and provides a better temperature contrast to the warm bread bites. You can gently heat the marinara sauce on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
A: Yes, you can use store-bought pizza dough to make these Parmesan Bread Bites. It’s a convenient option, especially when you’re short on time. However, homemade pizza dough will always yield a superior flavor and texture. If using store-bought dough, ensure it is fresh and of good quality for the best results.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the pizza dough ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. You can also prepare the garlic butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to bake the bread bites fresh just before serving for optimal texture and flavor. If you need to make them slightly ahead, you can bake them and then reheat them briefly in a warm oven before serving.

Q: Can I use different cheeses?
A: While parmesan cheese is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other hard cheeses. Pecorino Romano would be a great substitute for a similar salty and sharp flavor. You could also add a blend of parmesan and asiago for a slightly different flavor profile. Avoid using cheeses that melt too quickly or become too oily, as this could affect the texture of the bread bites.

Q: Can I add other herbs or spices to the garlic butter?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the garlic butter to your liking. You can add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, dried oregano for a more pronounced oregano flavor, or even a pinch of garlic powder for an extra garlicky kick. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also be finely minced and added to the garlic butter for a more gourmet touch.

Q: How do I store leftover Parmesan Bread Bites?
A: Store leftover Parmesan Bread Bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a low oven (around 300°F or 150°C) for a few minutes until heated through, or briefly microwave them. Keep in mind that they are best enjoyed fresh and may lose some of their crispness upon reheating.

Print