Name: Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-490118H2M41S
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for chewier texture); 1 cup warm water (105°F to 110°F); 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, for richer dough); ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature; 3 cloves garlic, minced finely (or 1 teaspoon garlic salt as a substitute); ¼ teaspoon salt (plus an additional ⅛ teaspoon for brushing); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)

Oh my, if you have a soft spot for irresistible, cheesy snacks, then you absolutely need to dive into this Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe. These little rounds of garlicky, buttery, and herb-infused dough are perfect for sharing (or secretly devouring alone), delivering a perfect balance of crunchy exterior and fluffy interior with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, gearing up for game day, or just craving a comforting nibble, these Parmesan Bread Bites will quickly become your go-to favorite. Trust me, once you taste these, the search for a simple yet spectacular appetizer ends right here!

Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is key for this recipe, and the best part is how simple yet essential each component is. From the fresh homemade pizza dough that forms the pillowy base to the flavorful garlic butter that brings it all to life, each ingredient adds a unique layer of taste, texture, and color that you’ll love.

Homemade pizza dough: The heart of the bites, offering that chewy, soft base with a slightly crisp edge after baking.
Unsalted butter: For a creamy, rich spread that allows you to control the salt perfectly while merging beautifully with garlic and herbs.
Minced garlic: Fresh garlic is preferred to infuse the bites with a robust, aromatic punch—key for that signature flavor.
Salt: Balances the richness and enhances every savory note in the garlic butter.
Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that adds Mediterranean flair and depth to the bites.
Dried parsley (or fresh parsley): Adds a refreshing touch of color and subtle herbaceous flavor to brighten the dish.
Parmesan cheese: The star ingredient sprinkled generously to create that crispy, savory, cheesy crust that defines Parmesan Bread Bites.

How to Make Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Dough

Start by making your homemade pizza dough, which is truly the soul of these Parmesan Bread Bites. Take your time to mix flour, water, active dry yeast, olive oil, and salt, then allow the dough to rise until it doubles in size. This resting period is magical—it activates the yeast and builds that airy, chewy texture you want in every bite. If you’re short on time, store-bought dough can be a convenient substitute, but I promise the homemade kind is worth the extra effort.

Step 2: Mix the Garlic Butter

While the dough rises, whip up the garlic butter that’s going to take your bread bites to the next level. Cream the unsalted butter until light and fluffy, then fold in finely minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, and parsley. This mixture should smell heavenly—a balance of buttery richness, fresh herbs, and that unmistakable garlic aroma. Keep it at room temperature so it is easy to spread over the dough.

Step 3: Shape and Brush

Once your dough is ready, roll it out on a floured surface to about half an inch thick. Cut the dough into bite-sized squares or rounds—whatever shape you prefer. Place these pieces on a prepared baking tray with a bit of space between each. Brush each bite generously with the garlic butter, making sure every piece is richly coated. Don’t skimp on this step, as the butter mixture is what gives the bites their signature savory character.

Step 4: Sprinkle Parmesan and Bake

Now, grab your freshest grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle a generous layer on top of each butter-coated bite. The cheese will melt into a golden, crisp crust during baking. Pop the tray into a preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes or until the bites are puffed and beautifully browned around the edges. The aroma filling your kitchen at this point will be absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate these Parmesan Bread Bites, consider sprinkling a little extra fresh parsley right after baking for a vibrant, fresh finish. A light dusting of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle kick that pairs wonderfully with the garlic and cheese.

Side Dishes

These bites make a fantastic companion to a simple marinara sauce or a creamy ranch dip. Feeling adventurous? They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup, creating a well-rounded meal full of cozy, comforting flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or gatherings, serve these Parmesan Bread Bites stacked on a rustic wooden board with small dipping bowls of pesto, olive oil with balsamic vinegar, or spicy aioli. You can even thread a few bites on skewers alongside cherry tomatoes and basil leaves for a visually stunning and easy-to-eat appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (and I hope you do!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Keep in mind they are best enjoyed fresh, so try to reheat them sooner rather than later to maintain that perfect texture.

Freezing

These bread bites freeze beautifully either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, prepare and cut the dough, place pieces on a tray, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes. If freezing after baking, wrap the cooled bites tightly and freeze; reheat in the oven to regain their crispiness.

Reheating

Reheat leftover or frozen-and-thawed Parmesan Bread Bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This method revives the crisp cheese crust and warms the buttery garlic center perfectly without making them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for this Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade dough provides superior flavor and texture, store-bought pizza dough is a great shortcut that still yields delicious results. Just be sure to pick a good-quality dough and let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Is it possible to make these bites vegan or dairy-free?

You can certainly experiment by swapping butter with a dairy-free margarine and using a plant-based Parmesan-style cheese. The flavor profile will change slightly, but you can still enjoy a tasty version suited to special diets.

How do I prevent the bites from being too oily?

Use measured amounts of garlic butter and avoid over-brushing each bite. Excess butter can pool and create greasiness, so aim for a nice even coating rather than a thick layer.

Can I prepare the dough a day ahead?

Yes! Pizza dough actually benefits from an overnight rest in the fridge—it develops more complex flavors. Just take it out an hour before use to warm to room temperature.

What’s the best cheese to use besides Parmesan?

While Parmesan is key for its sharp, nutty taste and crisping ability, you can experiment by mixing in grated Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a slightly different flavor twist, or add mozzarella for melty softness beneath that crisp top layer.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe enough for anyone who loves an easy, flavorful treat that always impresses. With just a handful of straightforward ingredients and a touch of patience, you’ll be rewarded with bites that are bursting with garlicky, buttery goodness, dipped in savory herbs and coated in crisp, cheesy perfection. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to make these delightful little bites your new favorite snack!

Parmesan Bread Bites Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 30 reviews

These Parmesan Bread Bites feature soft, chewy homemade pizza dough brushed with a flavorful garlic butter infused with Italian herbs and parsley, then baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a savory appetizer or snack, these bites combine the rich aroma of garlic butter with the cheesy goodness of Parmesan for an irresistible treat that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable.

Author: Zane
Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1-1.5 hours rising time)
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Yield: Approximately 30 Parmesan Bread Bites 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Homemade Pizza Dough

3 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or bread flour for chewier texture)
1 cup warm water (105°F to 110°F)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional, for richer dough)

Garlic Butter

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
3 cloves garlic, minced finely (or 1 teaspoon garlic salt as a substitute)
¼ teaspoon salt (plus an additional ⅛ teaspoon for brushing)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sprinkling)

Instructions

Prepare the pizza dough: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water along with sugar or honey if using. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil, then mix until a dough forms.
Knead the dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Make the garlic butter: While the dough rises, combine the room temperature unsalted butter with the minced garlic, salt, Italian seasoning, and parsley. Mix well until it forms a smooth, spreadable butter. Adjust salt if you used garlic salt instead of fresh garlic.
Shape the bread bites: Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out on a floured surface into a roughly 12 x 14 inch rectangle about ½ inch thick. Spread half of the garlic butter evenly over the dough. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into bite-sized squares approximately 1.5 inches each.
Assemble and bake: Arrange the dough bites close together on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with the remaining garlic butter and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes or until the bites are golden brown and the cheese is melted and slightly crisp.
Serve warm: Remove from the oven and allow the bites to cool for a few minutes. Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or snack with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

You can use store-bought pizza dough in a pinch, but homemade dough yields the best texture and flavor.
Fresh minced garlic is preferred for the garlic butter, but garlic salt can be used to save time—adjust added salt accordingly.
Make the dough ahead and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days or freeze for longer storage. Bring to room temperature before shaping.
For a chewier texture, use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour.
These bites pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or a garlic aioli dip.