Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

If you’re looking for a comforting treat that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is my go-to recipe for any occasion. It’s wonderfully soft, bursting with flavor, and filled with gooey melted cheese. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight dinner or serving it at a family gathering, this bread will surely be a hit.

Not only does it pair beautifully with soups and pastas, but it’s also fantastic as a stand-alone snack. Just imagine tearing off a piece of warm bread, the aroma of herbs wafting through the air—it’s pure bliss!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and just a few ingredients, this bread comes together effortlessly.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves cheese! This recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake it fresh when needed.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of herbs and cheeses creates an irresistible taste that elevates any meal.
• Perfect for sharing: This large loaf is perfect for gatherings, allowing everyone to enjoy a slice (or two!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! Each one is simple and wholesome, making this delicious bread not just tasty but also satisfying. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Bread

• 3 ½ cups bread flour (plus extra for dusting)
• 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water (105°F–110°F)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 ½ tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil (plus more for brushing)
• 1 tbsp Italian herb blend (dried oregano, basil, thyme, parsley)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to switch things up based on your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add some heat: Toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
• Try different cheeses: Experiment with your favorite cheeses like provolone or gouda for unique flavors.
• Herb swap: Customize the herb blend by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dried.
• Make it sweet: For a fun twist, add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes into the dough before rolling it up.

How to Make Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let this mixture sit for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes foamy. Activating the yeast is crucial; it ensures our bread rises beautifully!

Step 2: Mix in Ingredients

Next, add olive oil, salt, and half of the flour to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine everything. Gradually add in the remaining flour until you see a soft dough forming. This step helps create that perfect texture we all love in homemade bread.

Step 3: Knead the Dough

Turn your dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Kneading develops gluten which gives our bread its delightful chewy texture.

Step 4: First Rise

Place your kneaded dough in a greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1½ hours or until doubled in size. This step allows air bubbles to form in your dough for that lightness we crave.

Step 5: Prepare the Filling

Once your dough has risen perfectly, punch it down gently to release those air bubbles! Shape it into a rectangle on your floured surface, then sprinkle minced garlic and both types of cheese evenly over the surface. The filling adds so much flavor!

Step 6: Roll It Up

Now roll up your dough jelly-roll style while tucking in the ends tightly. Place it seam-side down into a greased loaf pan. This shaping helps keep all that delicious filling inside!

Step 7: Second Rise

Cover the pan again and let it rise for another 30-40 minutes until puffy. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This second rise ensures that our loaf gets even fluffier!

Step 8: Add Toppings

Before baking, brush the top of your loaf with olive oil and sprinkle with Italian herbs along with extra cheese if desired. These toppings not only enhance flavor but add that beautiful golden crust we all love.

Step 9: Bake

Bake for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on top. The aroma wafting from your oven will make waiting nearly impossible!

Step 10: Cool & Serve

Let your bread cool slightly before garnishing with fresh parsley. Then slice into generous portions and enjoy every bite!

This Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is sure to become one of those cherished recipes you’ll turn to again and again!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Baking bread at home can be a rewarding experience, and with these pro tips, you’ll elevate your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread to new heights!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh yeast and high-quality cheese make a big difference in flavor and texture. Always check the expiration date on your yeast, and opt for freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-packaged for the best melt.

• Knead thoroughly: Proper kneading develops gluten, which gives your bread its structure and chewiness. Aim for 8–10 minutes of kneading until the dough is smooth and elastic; this step is crucial for achieving that perfect texture.

• Allow ample rising time: Don’t rush the rising process! Giving the dough enough time to double in size allows for a light and airy loaf. If your kitchen is cool, consider placing the dough in a slightly warm oven (turned off) to help it rise.

• Experiment with herbs: While this recipe calls for an Italian herb blend, feel free to get creative! Adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can bring unique flavors to your bread, making it even more delightful.

• Check doneness: The best way to know if your bread is baked perfectly is by tapping it on the bottom. If it sounds hollow, that’s a sign it’s ready! Also, look for a beautiful golden brown crust for that appealing finish.

How to Serve Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

This flavorful bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil not only adds color but also enhances the aroma of your bread.
• Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top just before serving elevates the taste experience.

Side Dishes

• Tomato Basil Soup: This classic pairing is perfect for dipping! The rich tomato flavors complement the cheesy goodness of the bread.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with a creamy dressing provides a nice contrast to the warm, cheesy bread.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds vibrancy and nutrition to your meal while balancing out the richness of the bread.
• Pasta Primavera: Light pasta with fresh vegetables tossed in olive oil offers a refreshing side that pairs beautifully with this hearty loaf.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, you’re all set to enjoy your Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread in style! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy fresh, homemade bread throughout the week. Whether you want to whip up a batch in advance or save some leftovers, here’s how to keep your bread fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover bread in a resealable plastic bag or an airtight container.
• Store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, keep it in the refrigerator for about a week.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label the package with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Unwrap the frozen or refrigerated bread and place it directly on the oven rack.
• Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crusty again.

FAQs

Have questions about this recipe? Here are some answers!

Can I make Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread without yeast?

While yeast is essential for this recipe’s rise and texture, you can try a baking powder alternative. However, it will yield a different flavor and texture.

What cheeses work best in Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread?

Mozzarella and sharp cheddar create a delightful blend, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like provolone or gouda for varied flavors.

How do I know when my Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is done baking?

The bread should be golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped. A digital thermometer should read around 190°F (88°C) when done.

Can I add extra herbs or spices to the bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or spices to enhance the flavor profile even further.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience filled with warmth and flavor that brings people together. Whether you’re serving it alongside your favorite soup or enjoying it as a snack, this bread is sure to impress. Happy baking!