Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread
This delicious Italian herb and cheese bread is fluffy, flavorful, and packed with gooey cheese and fragrant herbs. A perfect side for pasta night or a standout addition to your bread basket.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups warm water
2¼ tsp active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
1 tbsp Italian herbs (rosemary, thyme, oregano)
1 tsp ground black pepper
1½ cups shredded cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, or Parmesan)
2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
Activate Yeast: Combine warm water and yeast in a small bowl. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and Italian herbs. Create a well in the center.
Form Dough: Add activated yeast, garlic, and melted butter to the flour mixture. Stir until dough forms.
Knead: Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Add Cheese: Fold in shredded cheese until evenly mixed.
First Rise: Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled in size (1–2 hours).
Shape Loaf: Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and place on a baking sheet. Let rise another 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top with melted butter and bake for 25–30 minutes or until golden brown and hollow when tapped.
Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm with butter or olive oil.
Notes
Mix different cheeses like Parmesan, mozzarella, or provolone for depth of flavor.
Ensure water is warm (not hot) to activate yeast properly.
For extra flavor, brush with garlic butter right after baking.
This bread pairs beautifully with pasta, soup, or antipasto platters.
