Description
This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is soft on the inside with a golden, cheesy crust and packed with the rich flavors of herbs and garlic. Perfect as a side for pastas, soups, or salads, it also stands strong on its own as a savory snack or appetizer. With melty cheese, aromatic Italian herbs, and a buttery finish, this bread will become a go-to favorite for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp sugar
1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp melted butter
1 tsp dried parsley or more Italian seasoning for topping
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
Add the olive oil, salt, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and flour. Mix until a dough forms. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer for about 8 to 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Shape into a loaf or press into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Sprinkle the top evenly with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Lightly press the cheese into the dough.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the bread sounds hollow when tapped.
While still warm, brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with dried parsley or additional Italian seasoning. Let cool slightly before slicing.
Notes
This bread is very customizable. You can add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or roasted garlic to the dough for extra flavor. Feel free to use a blend of cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or asiago. To reheat leftovers, wrap the slices in foil and warm them in the oven to restore their soft texture and crisp crust.