Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Fragrant, cheesy, and packed with savory flavor, this Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is the kind of bread that turns any meal into something special. With a golden crust, a soft, fluffy interior, and the bold flavors of garlic, herbs, and melted cheese, this loaf is everything you love about bakery-style bread—made easily at home. Whether you’re serving it with pasta, soup, or slicing it up for sandwiches, this bread delivers both comfort and flavor in every bite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy & Herby Goodness – Bursting with Italian flavors in every slice.
Soft Yet Crispy – A tender crumb inside with a golden, crusty top.
Great for Any Meal – Serve it as a side, sandwich bread, or appetizer.
Homemade Comfort – Nothing beats the smell of fresh bread baking in your oven.
Beginner-Friendly – Easy steps and simple ingredients anyone can follow.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Dough:

• 3½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
• 1 packet (2¼ tsp) instant yeast
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1½ tsp salt
• 1¼ cups warm water (110°F)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Herb & Cheese Filling:

• 1½ tsp dried Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Topping:

• 2 tbsp shredded mozzarella
• 1 tbsp grated Parmesan
• ½ tsp dried Italian seasoning

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or stand mixer with dough hook
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet or loaf pan
• Pastry brush
• Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

1. In a large bowl, stir together warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add the flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a rough dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
5. In a small bowl, mix the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley (if using). Set aside.

Step 3: Shape the Bread
6. Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle (about 10×14 inches).
7. Brush with 1 tbsp olive oil.
8. Sprinkle evenly with the herb mixture, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Roll and Second Rise
9. Starting from the short end, roll the dough tightly like a jelly roll.
10. Pinch the seam to seal and tuck the ends under.
11. Place seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment or into a greased loaf pan.
12. Cover loosely and let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 5: Add Toppings and Bake
13. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
14. Sprinkle the top of the loaf with more mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
15. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
16. Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
17. Slice and serve warm with butter, olive oil, or alongside your favorite dishes.

Tips for Success
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – It melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded.
Don’t Skip the Second Rise – This gives the loaf its soft, airy texture.
Add Extra Herbs – Boost flavor with rosemary, thyme, or red pepper flakes.
Let It Cool Slightly – This helps the cheese set and makes slicing easier.
Want Rolls Instead? – Divide the dough and make individual herb and cheese rolls.

Serving Suggestions
Spaghetti Night – Serve alongside classic pasta dishes for the ultimate side.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich – Slice and stuff with more cheese for a melty masterpiece.
Charcuterie Boards – Add sliced bread to boards with meats, cheeses, and spreads.
Soup Companion – Perfect with tomato soup, minestrone, or chicken noodle.
Appetizer Platter – Serve warm with marinara or garlic butter for dipping.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Room Temp: Wrap in foil or keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for best texture.
Freezer: Slice and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temp or reheat straight from frozen.

Reheating:
Oven: Wrap in foil and heat at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Toaster: Toast slices until warm and lightly crisp.
Microwave: Heat individual slices for 20–30 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use different types of cheese?
   Yes! Try provolone, sharp cheddar, asiago, or a cheese blend.
2. Can I make this dough in advance?
   You can! After the first rise, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours.
3. What’s the best way to roll the loaf?
   Roll it tightly from the short end to create swirls of cheese and herbs throughout.
4. Can I make it gluten-free?
   Yes, but use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast baking.
5. Can I make this in a bread machine?
   You can prepare the dough in a bread machine, then shape, fill, and bake it in the oven.

Final Thoughts
This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is everything a homemade loaf should be—warm, comforting, flavorful, and just cheesy enough to feel indulgent. With soft texture and fragrant herbs baked right in, it’s a guaranteed favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just want to level up your sandwich game, this bread will do the trick.

Bake it once, and you’ll keep coming back for more. Don’t forget to share your creation—I’d love to see how your bread turns out!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 90 minutes rising time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 11g | Carbohydrates: 32g | Fat: 12g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 430mg

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