25+ Irresistible Crusty Italian Bread Recipes to Try at Home

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Crusty Italian bread is a beloved staple that brings warmth, flavor, and tradition to any meal.

Known for its golden, crispy exterior and tender, airy crumb, this bread pairs perfectly with everything from hearty pasta dishes to simple olive oil dips.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, exploring a variety of crusty Italian bread recipes can elevate your baking skills and your dining experience.

With more than 25 diverse recipes to choose from, there’s a crusty Italian bread for every taste and occasion — from herb-infused loaves to rustic country styles, each with its unique twist.

25+ Irresistible Crusty Italian Bread Recipes to Try at Home

Mastering crusty Italian bread at home is easier than you might think, and the rewards are truly satisfying.

These recipes offer a fantastic way to bring authentic Italian flavors to your kitchen with textures and aromas that store-bought bread can’t match.

Whether you prefer a simple classic loaf or one enriched with herbs, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes, experimenting with these recipes can help you discover your personal favorite.

So grab your flour and yeast, and start baking your way to crusty, flavorful Italian bread that will impress family and friends alike.

Classic Crusty Italian Bread

This classic crusty Italian bread features a golden, crackly crust with a soft and airy interior.

Perfect for sandwiches, dipping in olive oil, or serving alongside pasta, this recipe brings the authentic taste of Italy right to your kitchen.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  3. Mix to form a dough and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf, and place it on a baking sheet dusted with flour.
  6. Let it rise again for about 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with a baking stone or inverted baking sheet inside.
  8. Make several slashes on top of the loaf with a sharp knife and bake for 20-25 minutes until crusty and golden.
  9. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

This bread delivers a wonderful combination of a crunchy crust and tender crumb, ideal for enhancing any meal or enjoying fresh with butter.

No-Knead Italian Bread

No-knead Italian bread is a simple yet impressive loaf that yields a crunchy crust and chewy interior without the effort of kneading.

Its slow rise allows deep flavor development, making it a great beginner-friendly recipe.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 ½ cups warm water

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and yeast.
  2. Add warm water and stir until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rise at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours until bubbly and doubled.
  4. Lightly flour a surface and turn dough out onto it. Fold it over a couple of times to shape into a ball.
  5. Place dough on parchment paper, cover with a towel, and let it rise for another 1-2 hours.
  6. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven or heavy pot inside.
  7. Carefully transfer the dough with parchment into the hot pot, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove lid and bake for another 15 minutes until deeply browned and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

This no-knead method produces an artisan-style loaf with minimal effort and maximum flavor, perfect for dipping in sauces or making hearty sandwiches.

Sourdough Italian Bread

Sourdough Italian bread brings the tangy depth of natural fermentation to a crusty, chewy loaf.

Using a sourdough starter, this bread has a complex flavor and texture that elevates any meal.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups sourdough starter (active and bubbly)
  • 3 ½ cups bread flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup water (adjust as needed)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine sourdough starter, water, and flour. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
  2. Add salt and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  3. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise at room temperature until doubled (about 4-6 hours).
  4. Turn dough out onto a floured surface, shape into a round loaf, and place on parchment paper.
  5. Cover and let rise for another 2 hours or until puffy.
  6. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with a Dutch oven inside.
  7. Score the top of the loaf and carefully place it into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake for 25 minutes.
  8. Remove lid and bake for another 15 minutes until crusty and browned.
  9. Cool on a rack before slicing.

This sourdough loaf boasts a robust crust and slightly tangy flavor, making it a delicious companion to soups, cheeses, or simply enjoyed on its own.

Garlic Herb Italian Bread

This garlic herb Italian bread infuses classic crusty bread with aromatic garlic and fragrant herbs, creating a flavorful loaf that’s perfect as a side or for making savory sandwiches.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it activate until foamy.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, garlic, rosemary, and oregano.
  3. Make a well in the center and add yeast mixture and olive oil.
  4. Mix to form a dough and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the top and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

The garlic and herbs add a wonderful savory depth, making this bread ideal for dipping in olive oil or pairing with Italian dishes.

Semolina Italian Bread

Semolina Italian bread combines semolina flour with traditional bread flour to create a loaf with a slightly crunchy crust and tender crumb, giving a distinctive texture and flavor.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups bread flour
  • 1 ½ cups semolina flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water and sprinkling yeast on top. Let it foam.
  2. In a large bowl, combine bread flour, semolina flour, and salt.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil into the flour mixture.
  4. Knead until dough is smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
  5. Let dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled in size.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a semolina-dusted baking sheet, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the top and bake for 20-25 minutes until crusty and golden.
  9. Let cool before slicing.

This bread’s unique texture and rich flavor from the semolina make it a perfect choice for sandwiches or serving alongside hearty meals.

Rustic Italian Pain de Campagne

Rustic Italian pain de campagne blends the traditional French country bread style with Italian flavors for a crusty loaf with a tender interior and slightly nutty taste.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups bread flour
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar and yeast in warm water and allow to activate until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, mix bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour.
  4. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until elastic and smooth.
  5. Let the dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled.
  6. Shape into a round loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for 30-45 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Slash the loaf and bake for 25-30 minutes until deep golden and crusty.
  9. Cool on a rack before slicing.

This loaf balances the heartiness of whole wheat with the lightness of white flour, offering a flavorful, crusty bread perfect for any table.

Olive Oil Italian Bread

This olive oil Italian bread boasts a crispy crust and a soft, moist crumb thanks to the addition of quality olive oil.

It’s a versatile loaf perfect for dipping in balsamic vinegar or accompanying Mediterranean dishes.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast over it. Let it become frothy.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
  3. Make a well and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
  4. Mix and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and allow a second rise for about 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

The olive oil enriches the dough, yielding a tender crumb and delicious flavor that pairs well with many meals.

Italian Focaccia Bread

Italian focaccia bread is a thick, airy bread with a golden crust, topped with olive oil and herbs.

It’s easy to make and perfect as a snack, appetizer, or sandwich base.

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup olive oil, plus extra for topping
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • Coarse sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water and letting it foam.
  2. Combine flour and salt in a bowl. Add yeast mixture and olive oil.
  3. Mix and knead the dough until smooth, about 8-10 minutes.
  4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  5. Press dough into a greased baking pan, dimple the surface with fingers.
  6. Drizzle olive oil over the top, sprinkle with rosemary and coarse sea salt.
  7. Let rise again for 20-30 minutes.
  8. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Cool slightly before slicing.

This focaccia’s crispy crust and herb-infused flavor make it a wonderful accompaniment to meals or a tasty snack on its own.

Parmesan Italian Bread

Parmesan Italian bread is a savory, crusty loaf with the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese baked into the dough, creating a deliciously cheesy aroma and taste.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Combine sugar and yeast in warm water and let foam.
  2. In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil to flour mixture.
  4. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf and place on a floured baking sheet.
  7. Let rise again for 30 minutes.
  8. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  9. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  10. Cool before slicing.

The Parmesan cheese melts into the bread, adding a rich umami flavor that makes this loaf perfect for sandwiches or serving alongside soups and salads.

Rosemary Olive Italian Bread

This rosemary olive Italian bread combines fragrant rosemary and salty olives into a crusty loaf with a soft interior.

It’s perfect for serving alongside cheese boards or Mediterranean meals.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup pitted black olives, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water, sprinkle yeast on top, and let activate until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, rosemary, and olives.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
  4. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
  5. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

The earthy rosemary and briny olives create a flavorful loaf that enhances any meal or stands well on its own.

Honey Wheat Italian Bread

Honey wheat Italian bread adds a touch of natural sweetness and whole wheat goodness to a crusty loaf, offering a balance of hearty flavor and tender crumb.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups bread flour
  • 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. In a small bowl, dissolve honey in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it activate.
  2. Combine bread flour, whole wheat flour, and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
  4. Knead the dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
  5. Let the dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled in size.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

The honey adds subtle sweetness that complements the nuttiness of the whole wheat flour, making this loaf great for breakfast or sandwiches.

Sun-Dried Tomato Italian Bread

Sun-dried tomato Italian bread infuses the crusty loaf with rich, tangy bursts of sun-dried tomatoes, creating a flavorful bread that pairs wonderfully with cheeses and charcuterie.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water and letting it foam.
  2. Mix flour and salt in a large bowl. Add sun-dried tomatoes.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour.
  4. Knead the dough until elastic and smooth, about 10 minutes.
  5. Let dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

The sun-dried tomatoes lend a savory, slightly sweet tang that enlivens the bread, making it an excellent accompaniment to Italian meals or sandwiches.

Tuscan Style Italian Bread

Tuscan style Italian bread is known for its simple, rustic flavor without salt, highlighting the natural sweetness of the flour and a crisp crust perfect for dipping in olive oil or pairing with cured meats.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it activate until frothy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour and mix until a dough forms.
  4. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

This bread’s lack of salt enhances its traditional Tuscan character, making it ideal for dipping or enjoying with flavorful toppings.

Italian Garlic Parmesan Bread

This Italian garlic Parmesan bread combines crispy crust with rich garlic and Parmesan cheese baked inside the loaf, perfect for a flavorful accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water and letting it foam.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead until smooth and elastic (about 10 minutes).
  4. Let dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled.
  5. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  7. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  8. Cool before slicing.

The garlic and Parmesan enrich the bread, offering a savory taste that pairs beautifully with pasta, soups, or salads.

Classic Italian Ciabatta Bread

Classic Italian ciabatta bread features a thin, crispy crust with an open, airy crumb inside, ideal for sandwiches or dipping in sauces.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups bread flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¾ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water, sprinkle yeast, and let activate until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, combine bread flour and salt.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing to a sticky dough.
  4. Knead gently, then cover and let rise until doubled.
  5. Transfer dough to a well-floured surface, shape into a loaf without deflating too much.
  6. Place on a floured baking sheet, cover, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C).
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until crusty and golden.
  9. Cool before slicing.

This ciabatta’s airy texture and crusty exterior make it perfect for hearty sandwiches or dipping in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Semolina Italian Bread

Semolina Italian bread uses semolina flour to give the crust a golden color and a slightly nutty flavor, resulting in a crisp exterior and tender crumb.

Ingredients

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup semolina flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top; let it foam.
  2. In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, semolina flour, and salt.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil; mix to form a dough.
  4. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

The semolina flour adds a lovely texture and color to the bread, making it a delightful choice for sandwiches or dipping.

Italian Herb Bread

Italian herb bread is infused with a blend of classic Mediterranean herbs, delivering an aromatic and flavorful loaf perfect for accompanying pasta dishes or soups.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried Italian herb mix (basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary)

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water and letting it foam.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and dried herbs.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
  4. Let dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled.
  5. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  7. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  8. Cool before slicing.

This herb-infused bread brings delightful Mediterranean flavors that enhance any meal or can be enjoyed simply with olive oil.

Rustic Italian Country Bread

Rustic Italian country bread features a hearty crust and chewy interior, made with a mix of white and whole wheat flour for a wholesome, satisfying loaf.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top; let it foam.
  2. Combine all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, and salt in a bowl.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil; mix to form dough.
  4. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into a round loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

The blend of flours creates a rich, hearty flavor with a chewy texture, perfect for sandwiches or serving with rustic meals.

Olive Oil Italian Bread

Olive oil Italian bread boasts a golden crust and a tender crumb, enriched by the subtle fruitiness of quality olive oil, making it perfect for dipping or sandwiches.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it activate until foamy.
  2. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil to the flour mixture.
  4. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.
  5. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf and place on a floured baking sheet. Let rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

The olive oil adds richness and moisture, resulting in a versatile loaf ideal for everyday use.

Focaccia Style Italian Bread

Focaccia style Italian bread is soft, fluffy, and generously topped with olive oil and herbs, perfect as a side or base for sandwiches and appetizers.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary (optional)

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it activate until frothy.
  2. Mix flour and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Add yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil, kneading until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  5. Press dough into a greased baking pan, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and sprinkle rosemary if using.
  6. Let rise for 20 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.
  9. Cool slightly before serving.

This focaccia-style bread is rich in flavor and texture, great for snacking or pairing with dips.

Sicilian Style Italian Bread

Sicilian style Italian bread features a thick, airy crumb and a crispy crust, often baked in a pan for a square shape and topped with olive oil and herbs.

Ingredients

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¾ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water and letting it foam.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and oregano.
  3. Add yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Knead until smooth and elastic.
  4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled.
  5. Press dough into an oiled baking pan, drizzle with remaining olive oil.
  6. Let rise for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crisp.
  9. Cool before slicing.

This bread’s thick crust and airy interior make it perfect for hearty sandwiches or dipping.

Rustic Rosemary Italian Bread

Rustic rosemary Italian bread is infused with fresh rosemary for an earthy aroma and flavor, complemented by a crunchy crust and soft crumb.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water and letting it foam.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and chopped rosemary.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, then knead until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled.
  5. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and allow to rise again for 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  7. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  8. Cool before slicing.

The fresh rosemary enhances the bread’s rustic charm, making it ideal for pairing with cheeses and charcuterie.

Whole Wheat Italian Bread

Whole wheat Italian bread combines hearty whole wheat flour with a crisp crust and chewy texture, offering a wholesome twist on the classic loaf.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve sugar in warm water and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it activate until foamy.
  2. Mix whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, and salt in a large bowl.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil. Knead until smooth and elastic.
  4. Let dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled.
  5. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  7. Score the loaf and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crusty.
  8. Cool before slicing.

The addition of whole wheat flour gives this bread a nutty flavor and added fiber, perfect for a nutritious sandwich base.

Italian Sun-Dried Tomato Bread

Italian sun-dried tomato bread features tangy sun-dried tomatoes folded into the dough, providing bursts of flavor with every bite and a beautiful color.

Ingredients

  • 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast
  • 1 ¼ cups warm water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained)

Instructions

  1. Activate yeast by dissolving sugar in warm water and letting it foam.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt.
  3. Add yeast mixture and olive oil, mixing to form dough.
  4. Knead dough for 8-10 minutes, then fold in sun-dried tomatoes evenly.
  5. Let dough rise in an oiled bowl until doubled.
  6. Shape into a loaf, place on a floured baking sheet, and let rise again for 30 minutes.
  7. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
  8. Score the loaf and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and crusty.
  9. Cool before slicing.

This flavorful bread pairs well with Mediterranean dishes or can be enjoyed on its own as a tasty snack.

Conclusion

From traditional semolina loaves to focaccia and herb-packed breads, crusty Italian bread recipes showcase the rich diversity of Italy’s baking heritage. Baking these breads at home not only fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas but also connects you to centuries-old culinary traditions. No matter your skill level, these recipes are approachable and adaptable, making it easy to create fresh, crusty bread that complements any meal. Dive into these recipes and enjoy the art of Italian baking — a delicious journey full of flavor, texture, and love.

Ruth J. Pickett

Ruth J. Pickett is the founder of Foodline24.com, a website dedicated to sharing all kinds of recipes for cooks of every level. With a deep love for food and years of kitchen experience, Ruth curates simple, flavorful dishes that inspire everyday cooking. Her mission is to make cooking easy, enjoyable, and accessible to everyone.

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