Parmesan Bread Bites are a delightful blend of buttery goodness and cheesy flavor, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer. These delectable bites are easy to prepare and sure to impress friends and family alike, making them a must-try for any occasion.

Why Make This Recipe

Creating Parmesan Bread Bites from scratch allows you to enjoy fresh ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Homemade dough ensures the bites are fluffy and light, with a crispy exterior that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Add in the convenience of dipping them into marinara sauce, and you have a snack that’s both comforting and delicious.

How to Make Parmesan Bread Bites

Ingredients

Homemade Dough Matters: Using homemade dough allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and avoiding any unwanted additives or preservatives often found in store-bought varieties. The process of making dough, while time-consuming, is rewarding as the active dry yeast creates a light and airy texture essential for these bites. The 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 favorite pizza dough recipe or find numerous reliable recipes online. Whether you prefer a classic Neapolitan-style dough or a richer version with honey or sugar, any dough that rises well and bakes to a soft yet crisp texture is suitable.
Make-Ahead Option: Homemade pizza dough can be made in advance, rising and then stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days or even frozen for longer storage. This makes it easy to prepare for busy schedules, just ensuring it reaches room temperature before working with it.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter ensures precision in flavor since salted butter can vary in saltiness. Room temperature unsalted butter creams smoothly with garlic and seasonings, creating a spreadable garlic butter mixture.
Minced Garlic (or Garlic Salt): Freshly minced garlic adds robust flavor, but if you’re pressed for time, garlic salt is a convenient alternative. Adjust the salt accordingly if using garlic salt.
Salt: Salt enhances flavor balance, and the recipe specifies precise measurements to fine-tune taste. Always taste the garlic butter mixture to ensure a perfect seasoning balance.
Italian Seasoning: This herb blend introduces classic Mediterranean flavors, enriching the garlic butter. You can either use pre-made blends or create your own from individual dried herbs.
Dried Parsley (or Fresh Parsley): Parsley adds freshness and visual appeal; fresh parsley is usually more vibrant and flavorful compared to dried.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is crucial for the best flavor and meltability. Pre-shredded cheese often has additives that can affect texture and taste, so grating your own ensures maximum cheesy goodness.
Marinara Sauce for Dipping: A warm marinara sauce is the perfect accompaniment, offering a tangy contrast that complements the richness of the garlic bread bites.

Directions

Grease a large sheet pan with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking, allowing you to focus on the dough preparation.
Prepare the dough according to your chosen pizza dough recipe—mix flour, water, yeast, olive oil, and salt, then let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size. Punch it down gently before transferring it to a floured surface.
Cut the dough into approximately 1-inch bite-sized pieces and place them on the greased baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Cover loosely with a kitchen towel and let them rest for about 30 minutes for a second rise.
While the dough rises, prepare the garlic butter by combining room temperature unsalted butter, minced garlic (or garlic salt), salt, Italian seasoning, and parsley until creamy. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Brush the garlic butter generously over the risen dough bites. Reserve some for later. Bake for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Once baked, remove from the oven and brush with the remaining garlic butter while still hot. Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top immediately so it melts slightly.
Serve the bread bites warm, best paired with marinara sauce for dipping.

How to Serve Parmesan Bread Bites

Parmesan Bread Bites are best served immediately after baking while they are hot and fresh. Serve them on a platter alongside a bowl of warm marinara sauce for dipping to enhance their flavor profile and provide a delightful contrast to the richness of the bites.

How to Store Parmesan Bread Bites

To store leftover Parmesan Bread Bites, allow them to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore their warmth and crispiness.

Tips to Make Parmesan Bread Bites

Use Quality Ingredients: Choosing high-quality flour, cheese, and fresh herbs will elevate the overall taste of your bread bites.
Control Your Dough Consistency: Ensure your dough is well-kneaded and rises properly for the lightest texture.
Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to sprinkle additional herbs, spices, or even chili flakes on top before baking for a personalized touch.

Variation

Feel free to customize your Parmesan Bread Bites by adding different cheeses, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for varied flavor profiles. You can also incorporate spices like red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or replace Italian seasoning with your favorite herb blend.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough?
Yes! While homemade dough is recommended for freshness, store-bought pizza dough can be used in a pinch.
Can I freeze the baked bread bites?
Yes, you can freeze the baked Parmesan Bread Bites. Allow them to cool completely, place them in an airtight container, and freeze for up to a month.
What else can I dip the bread bites in?
In addition to marinara sauce, these bites pair well with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a warm cheese dip for added flavor variations.