Name: Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3½ cups all-purpose flour; 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 tablespoon sugar; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1 cup warm water (110°F); 3 tablespoons olive oil; 4 tablespoons butter (softened); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

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Introduction

This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is a flavorful twist on a classic loaf, packed with aromatic herbs, garlic butter, and gooey cheese. It’s perfect for serving alongside pasta, soups, or as a delicious snack on its own.

The image shows a close-up of a garlic cheese bread loaf on a white plate. The bread has about five visible layers, each piece separated by melted cheese and sprinkled with green herbs. The top crust is golden brown with crispy cheese and herbs baked into it. Inside, the bread looks soft and fluffy with gooey cheese strands running through the layers. Some small herb bits are scattered around the plate, and the background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3½ cups all-purpose flour
2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 tablespoon sugar
1½ teaspoons salt
1 cup warm water (110°F)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter (softened)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1½ tablespoons dried Italian herb blend
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy, then add olive oil, 3 cups flour, and salt. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Step 2: Knead the dough on a floured surface for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding the remaining flour as needed.
Step 3: Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour until doubled in size.
Step 4: Meanwhile, mix softened butter with minced garlic and dried Italian herbs.
Step 5: Roll the dough into a 12×18 inch rectangle, spread the herb butter evenly over it, then sprinkle with mozzarella, parmesan, and chopped parsley.
Step 6: Roll the dough tightly from the long side, pinch the seam to seal, and place the loaf seam-side down into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
Step 7: Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, substitute half the mozzarella with fontina or provolone cheese.
If you don’t have all dried Italian herbs, use a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme.
Brush the top of the loaf with olive oil before baking for a shinier crust.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep it longer, freeze the cooled loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 1 month. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore freshness and melt the cheese.

How to Serve

A rustic loaf of golden brown bread is sliced thick on a round white plate resting on a white marbled surface. The bread shows two main layers: a crispy outer crust with a rough texture sprinkled with herbs, and a soft, airy inside with embedded melted yellow and white cheese patches and scattered green herbs. The crumb looks moist and fluffy, with cheese oozing slightly between some slices. Small bits of herbs are also visible on the plate near the bread. In the background, blurred green leaves and a window bring natural light to the scene. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. Just reduce the warm water slightly and mix the yeast directly with the flour before adding liquids. You may also see a faster rise.

Can I make this bread without fresh parsley?

Absolutely! The fresh parsley adds brightness but can be omitted or substituted with dried parsley if needed. The herbs and cheese still provide plenty of flavor.