Italian Herb and Cheese Bread – A Comforting Homemade Classic
There’s something magical about the aroma of freshly baked bread filling the kitchen. Add to that the rich flavors of Italian herbs, golden melted cheese, and a soft, tender crumb, and you’ve got a loaf that feels like a warm hug. Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is one of those recipes that transforms a simple dinner into something memorable, and it’s easier to make than you might think.
Whether you’re serving it alongside a big bowl of spaghetti, as a hearty snack with marinara dipping sauce, or simply toasted with butter, this loaf brings rustic, homemade comfort to your table.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for brushing)
- Extra herbs and cheese for topping
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, add flour, salt, garlic powder, and dried herbs. Stir to combine.
- Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Roll up the dough like a jelly roll, then place seam-side down into a greased loaf pan.
- Cover again and let rise for 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the loaf with melted butter and sprinkle with extra herbs and cheese.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Cool slightly on a wire rack before slicing and serving.
Tips & Tricks
- Use bread flour instead of all-purpose for a chewier texture.
- Swap mozzarella with provolone or gouda for a deeper flavor.
- For extra garlicky goodness, rub a fresh garlic clove over the warm crust.
Variations
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the filling.
- Mix in red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it pull-apart style by cutting slits and stuffing with cheese before baking.
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit until foamy.
- Mix flour, salt, garlic powder, and herbs. Add yeast mixture and olive oil.
- Knead dough 8–10 minutes until elastic.
- Let dough rise 1 hour until doubled.
- Roll into rectangle, sprinkle with cheeses, and roll up like jelly roll.
- Place in loaf pan, rise 30 minutes.
- Brush with butter, top with cheese and herbs, bake 30–35 minutes at 375°F.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti Bolognese or fettuccine Alfredo.
- Pair with a bowl of creamy tomato soup.
- Toast slices and serve with olive oil for dipping.
Storage Information
- Store at room temperature in an airtight bag for 2 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze for up to 2 months—wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
FAQ
- Can I use fresh herbs? Yes! Double the quantity for fresh herbs.
- Can I make it ahead? Prepare the dough and let it rise overnight in the fridge.
- What if I don’t have a loaf pan? Bake it free-form on a baking sheet—it will still be delicious.
History / Fun Facts
Italian-inspired breads like this one trace back centuries, often baked in wood-fired ovens and shared at communal tables. Cheese breads were considered festive foods, often baked for holidays or celebrations. The mix of garlic, basil, and oregano is rooted in Italian-American cooking, making this bread a delicious fusion of tradition and comfort.
