Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe is a delightful way to bring the warm, comforting flavors of Italy right into your kitchen. Imagine biting into a golden, crusty loaf infused with fragrant Italian herbs and pockets of melted cheese that create the perfect blend of gooey richness and aromatic spice. It’s one of those breads that not only smells incredible while baking but also elevates any meal or stands proudly on its own as a savory snack. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a rewarding homemade treat, this recipe will quickly become a favorite you want to share with everyone you know.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to whip up this delicious bread means gathering simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that each play a key role in creating the incredible texture and flavor. From the flour that forms the dough’s sturdy base to the cheeses that add creamy indulgence, each element works in harmony for a beautiful final loaf.

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
• 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ teaspoons): Essential for making the dough rise and become light and airy.
• 1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast while adding a touch of subtle sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the overall taste.
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Brings a classic Mediterranean blend of herbs that define the bread’s distinct flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a gentle savory note without overpowering the other flavors.
• 1 cup warm water: Activates the yeast and helps form the dough.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds moisture and a subtle richness to the bread.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, giving that irresistible gooey texture inside.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Introduces a sharp, nutty flavor to complement the mozzarella.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds freshness and a pop of color to the finished loaf.

How to Make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

Start by mixing the flour, yeast, sugar, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a large bowl. This ensures all the dry components are evenly distributed, giving your bread its signature flavor and perfect rise.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

Pour the warm water and olive oil into your dry mix. Stir with a wooden spoon or use a stand mixer until the dough comes together into a sticky ball. This moisture is what activates the yeast and creates the soft interior of the bread.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Transfer the sticky dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for 5 to 7 minutes. Kneading develops the gluten, resulting in that wonderfully elastic and smooth texture you want in homemade bread.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your kneaded dough into a greased bowl and cover it with a clean towel. Set it somewhere warm to rise for about one hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is the magical moment when the yeast does its work, infusing the dough with airiness.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

While your dough is rising, get your oven ready by preheating it to 375°F (190°C). A well-heated oven is essential for achieving that perfect crust.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Herbs

Once the dough has puffed up, gently punch it down to release the trapped air. Fold in the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley if you’re using it. This step ensures every slice will be packed with gooey, cheesy pockets and herbaceous bursts.

Step 7: Shape the Loaf

Shape the dough into a loaf and place it onto a greased baking sheet or into a loaf pan for support. Forming it nicely helps the bread bake evenly and look beautifully rustic.

Step 8: Second Rest

Let the shaped loaf rest uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes before baking. This final rest lets the dough relax and rise just a bit more, so your bread turns out tender and light.

Step 9: Bake

Bake the loaf in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. This indicates the bread is perfectly baked through.

Step 10: Cool and Slice

Once baked, let the bread cool for several minutes. Cooling is important because it helps the melted cheese inside set, making slicing much neater and tastier.

How to Serve Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Top your warm slices with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil for added richness. Fresh chopped parsley or a few red pepper flakes can also add a bright, festive touch that complements the herbs already in the bread beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe pairs perfectly with soups like tomato basil or minestrone, salads with a tangy vinaigrette, or hearty pastas. It also makes a fantastic base for bruschetta or a rustic accompaniment to your favorite antipasto platter.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the bread sliced on a rustic wooden board alongside bowls of dipping oils infused with garlic, rosemary, or chili flakes. You can also hollow out the loaf to create a cheesy bread bowl filled with warm tomato soup or spinach artichoke dip.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps the crust from drying out and preserves the bread’s soft, cheesy interior.

Freezing

For longer storage, wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to one month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it at room temperature to help maintain its fresh-baked texture.

Reheating

The best way to reheat this bread is to place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes. This refreshes the crust and warms the cheese inside without drying it out, making it taste almost as good as freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use whole wheat flour for this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and a bit more fiber. Just keep in mind that the bread might be slightly denser.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries! You can easily make your own by combining dried basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. These herbs together will still capture the essence of Italian herbs beautifully.

Can I make this bread without cheese?

Yes, though the cheese adds a wonderful melt and richness that defines this recipe. If you skip the cheese, consider adding extra herbs or garlic to keep the flavor exciting.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when you tap the bottom. Using an instant-read thermometer can help too; it should read around 190°F (88°C) internally.

Is it possible to make this bread in a bread machine?

While this recipe is designed for hand kneading and baking, you can adapt it for a bread machine by following your machine’s instructions for basic yeast breads and adding the cheeses and herbs during the mix-in cycle.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade bread, especially when it’s bursting with the vibrant flavors of herbs and melted cheese. This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly rewarding to make. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience that wonderful aroma filling your kitchen and the joy of savoring every warm, cheesy bite. Trust me, this one is going to become a go-to recipe you’ll want to make again and again.

Print