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INTRODUCTION
Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread is a very simple bread you can make at home. You mix a few ingredients, let the dough rest, and bake. The crust is crisp and the inside is soft. This loaf fits into a busy life. It is a great recipe for simple meal prep and for anyone who wants fresh bread without a lot of work. If you want a richer side, try a cheesy garlic bread recipe that pairs well with soups and salads.
This version can be turned into a healthier version by using part whole wheat flour, adding seeds, or making smaller portions. That makes it a lighter option when you want bread but also care about fiber and balance.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this recipe because it is easy and forgiving. There is no need to knead or shape the dough. Just mix, wait, and bake. It saves time and fits into meal prep work for the week. Many people find this bread a great base for many meals like toast, sandwiches, or a side with soup.
Health and lifestyle benefits:
- Quick meal prep: mix tonight, bake tomorrow.
- Lighter option: make smaller loaves or use part whole wheat to add fiber.
- Good for weight loss when eaten in controlled portions with lean proteins and vegetables.
- Can be adapted to be a high protein meal by adding seeds or vital wheat gluten.
This bread is simple and can fit many diets when you choose the right version.
HOW TO MAKE Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
This bread starts with a loose, shaggy dough. You let it rest for many hours. That rest creates the texture and flavor. The oven does the rest of the work when you bake the covered dough in a hot pot. You get a crisp crust and a soft crumb. Use the basic recipe below and try variations to make it healthier, higher in protein, or gluten free.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Plastic wrap or saran wrap
- Large Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot with lid (9-10 inch)
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Kitchen towel
- Oven mitts
Ingredients You’ll Need :
- 3-1/4 cups AP flour
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1-1/2 tsp salt
- 1-1/2 cups warm water
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast and salt., Add the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon until just combined. (It will look pretty shaggy.), Cover with saran wrap, (I throw a towel over the top too), and let it sit for 4-24 hours in a non-drafty place. (I keep mine in the empty microwave.), When ready to bake:
To bake:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with the Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape gently into a round.
- Place the dough on parchment, lift into the hot pot, cover, and bake 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake another 10-15 minutes to brown the crust.
- Let cool on a rack before slicing.
The method is simple and the results are very good. Make sure the pot is hot and do not skip the steam step (the covered bake). That helps the crust form.
HOW TO SERVE Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
Serve slices warm with olive oil and herbs, or toast for breakfast. Keep portion control in mind: a one-inch slice is a good serving for most people. For a balanced plate, add a lean protein and a side of vegetables or a salad. This bread makes a great base for open-faced sandwiches or bruschetta.
Healthy serving ideas:
- One slice with mashed avocado and a poached egg for a high protein meal.
- Small slices with a bowl of vegetable soup for a light dinner.
- Use thin slices for sandwiches to lower calories per meal.
If you want to enjoy bread and still watch calories, store slices in the freezer and toast only what you need. This helps with portion control and makes the loaf a great choice for meal prep.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
Store at room temperature for 1-2 days in a paper bag or wrapped in a clean towel. For longer storage, slice and freeze:
- To freeze: slice the cooled loaf, put slices in a freezer bag, remove air and seal.
- To use: toast straight from the freezer or let defrost at room temperature.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
If you are watching sugar intake or managing a diet, freezing single slices lets you plan portion sizes and avoid overeating. This is helpful for people who want to stick to a plan for weight loss.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Pair the bread with balanced sides:
- A bowl of minestrone or lentil soup for fiber and protein.
- A salad with leafy greens and grilled chicken for a complete meal.
- Use as a base for avocado toast with smoked salmon for a high protein meal.
For a sweet finish after bread and soup, try easy cookies like candy cane shortbread cookies at holiday times. For a richer main, serve the bread alongside hearty dishes like pasta in a bowl, or try pairing with bowls such as chicken alfredo garlic bread bowls when you want a more filling dinner.
Portion control tip: serve one to two slices per person with a large salad or a cup of soup to keep meals balanced.
VARIATIONS
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Healthier version:
- Swap 1 cup of AP flour for whole wheat flour. This adds fiber and makes the bread more filling. Use the same water but add a touch more if the dough feels dry.
- Add 2 tablespoons of mixed seeds (sunflower, flax, chia) for extra fiber and healthy fats.
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High-protein or low-carb version:
- High-protein: Add 1/4 cup vital wheat gluten and 2 tablespoons of whey or pea protein powder (unflavored). The dough will be slightly firmer. This creates a denser, higher protein loaf that can help make meals more satiating.
- Low-carb: Replace half the flour with almond flour or a low-carb flour mix and use psyllium husk (1-2 tbsp) to help bind. Note: texture will change a lot and baking time may vary. This is a low carb attempt rather than a direct swap.
-
Air fryer or oven-baked version:
- Oven-baked: Follow the standard method using a Dutch oven in the oven at 450°F.
- Air fryer: Make smaller rolls. Shape dough into 2-3 small rounds, preheat the air fryer to 400°F, and cook for 12-15 minutes covered with foil for the first 8 minutes then uncovered to brown. This works well for quick small loaves and is a good air fryer option.
These variations let you make a lighter option or a richer, more protein-rich loaf. Pick the version that fits your goals—whether you want a healthy version, a high protein meal, or a low-carb test.
FAQs
Q: Is this bread healthy?
A: The basic loaf is made from white flour and has calories from carbs. It can be made healthier by swapping part of the flour with whole wheat and by adding seeds for fiber. Controlled portions make it easier to fit into a balanced diet.
Q: Can I make this diabetic-friendly?
A: For a diabetic-friendly loaf, use more whole grain flour and add seeds, and keep portion sizes small. You can also try versions with lower net carbs, but consult a diet plan for exact carb counts. Always count carbs if you need tight glucose control.
Q: How long does the dough last in the fridge?
A: You can let the dough rest in the fridge for up to 48 hours for a slow rise. Cover it well. Cold proofing deepens the flavor and can fit into meal prep plans.
Q: Can I freeze the baked bread?
A: Yes. Slice and freeze the cooked loaf for up to 3 months. Toast or warm slices as needed. Freezing helps with portion control and makes this great for meal prep.
Q: Is this a good choice for weight loss?
A: Bread can be part of a weight loss plan if you control portion size and pair it with lean proteins and vegetables. This recipe is easy to portion and freeze, which can help with consistent meal portions for weight loss goals.
Q: How to make it higher in protein?
A: Add vital wheat gluten, protein powder, or seeds. Pair slices with high protein toppings like eggs, cottage cheese, or lean meat to make a high protein meal.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
- Mix the dough the night before and let it rise in the fridge. This is great for meal prep and saves time the next day.
- Pre-shape small rolls to bake quickly in the morning or evening.
- Slice and freeze individual portions to limit how much you eat at once. This is handy if you are tracking calories for weight loss or need simple grab-and-go meals.
- Keep all dry ingredients measured and ready for a fast mix when you have time. The make-ahead options make this bread a steady part of your weekly plan.
Easy No-Knead Artisan Bread
Ingredients
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and salt.
- Add the warm water and stir with a wooden spoon until just combined. The dough will look shaggy.
- Cover with plastic wrap and a towel, and let it sit for 4-24 hours in a non-drafty place.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C) with a Dutch oven inside for at least 30 minutes.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and shape it gently into a round.
- Place the dough on parchment paper, lift it into the hot pot, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to brown the crust.
- Let cool on a rack before slicing.