If you’re looking to fill your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread, this Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is about to rock your world. With a soft, pillowy interior and a golden, cheesy crust bursting with fragrant Italian herbs, every slice is a little celebration of comfort and flavor. Whether you serve it alongside a pasta dinner, dunk it into soup, or build an epic sandwich, this homemade loaf brings the warmth of an Italian bakery straight to your table. The best part? It’s straightforward to make, rewards your efforts tenfold, and is sure to become your new favorite go-to bread.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses staple ingredients you likely already have on hand. Each one is chosen to contribute the perfect balance of taste, texture, and beautiful color to your finished Italian Herbs Cheese Bread.
- All-purpose flour or bread flour: The base that gives your bread structure and softness—bread flour will yield a chewier crumb, while all-purpose makes it a tad softer.
- Sugar: Just a tablespoon adds a hint of sweetness and helps feed the yeast for a great rise.
- Active dry yeast: The magic behind the rise—make sure it’s fresh for the best lift!
- Salt: Essential for flavor; it balances the cheese and herbs.
- Dried Italian herbs: Basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary infuse every bite with classic Italian flair—feel free to use a pre-mixed blend or combine your favorites.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings gooey, melty cheesiness to the loaf’s heart.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a nutty, savory note and helps create a deliciously crisp top.
- Warm water: Activates the yeast; aim for about 110°F so it’s just right.
- Olive oil: Adds subtle richness, keeps the bread extra tender, and gives the crust that bakery shine.
- Extra olive oil and herbs/cheese (optional): For brushing and topping, because more flavor never hurt anyone!
How to Make Italian Herbs Cheese Bread
Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl or the bowl of your stand mixer. Whisk together your flour, sugar, active dry yeast, salt, and those aromatic Italian herbs. This ensures your yeast gets evenly distributed, and every bite of bread is packed with those signature flavors.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Form Dough
Pour in your warm water and olive oil. Mix everything together—first with a spoon to bring it together, then with your hands or dough hook until a sticky dough forms. The dough will look a bit rustic at first, but as you knead, it’ll smooth right out.
Step 3: Knead and Add Cheese
Knead the dough by hand or in a stand mixer for about 8–10 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. It’ll start to pull away from the sides of the bowl and feel springy. Now, gently work in the mozzarella and Parmesan until these cheesy gems are streaked throughout the dough—your Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is already smelling incredible at this point!
Step 4: First Rise
Drizzle a little olive oil in a clean bowl, place your dough inside, and turn it so it’s lightly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, until doubled in size. Watching your dough puff up is always such a satisfying moment.
Step 5: Shape and Second Rise
Punch down the risen dough to release excess air. Shape it into a loaf or nestle it into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan. Cover again and let it rise in a cozy spot for another 30 minutes—this second rise ensures the bread bakes up tall and fluffy.
Step 6: Top and Bake
While the dough does its final proof, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the dough with olive oil for that gorgeous sheen. If you love a little extra flair, sprinkle on more herbs or a halo of shredded cheese. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the loaf is deeply golden and makes a hollow sound when you tap it—your kitchen will smell absolutely divine!
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Remove the bread from its pan and let it cool on a wire rack. Patience pays off here; letting it cool for at least 20 minutes helps the inside set so your slices will be pillowy and perfect. Now slice in and enjoy every cheesy, herby bite of your Italian Herbs Cheese Bread!
How to Serve Italian Herbs Cheese Bread
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs—like basil, oregano, or parsley—will make every slice of Italian Herbs Cheese Bread pop with color and brightness. If you’re feeling decadent, add another dusting of Parmesan over warm bread for a melt-in-your-mouth finishing touch. A drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil never hurts, either.
Side Dishes
This bread is a match made in heaven alongside Italian classics. Serve thick slices with lasagna, spaghetti, or any saucy pasta dish to soak up every last drop. It’s also incredible with a bowl of minestrone or tomato soup, or as a base for loaded sandwiches piled high with roasted veggies or your favorite deli fixings.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party-ready twist, slice your Italian Herbs Cheese Bread and arrange the pieces in a bread basket lined with a cozy tea towel—bonus points for adding a little bowl of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. Turn leftover slices into the world’s best grilled cheese or garlic bread. For brunch, try serving it alongside a frittata or with scrambled eggs and smoked salmon.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap cooled slices of Italian Herbs Cheese Bread tightly in plastic wrap or pop them into an airtight container. The bread keeps beautifully at room temperature for up to two days, or in the fridge for up to a week. For the freshest flavor, slice only what you plan to eat, leaving the rest whole.
Freezing
Planning ahead? Italian Herbs Cheese Bread freezes like a dream! Once the loaf is fully cooled, wrap it in a layer of plastic wrap, then foil. For easy grabbing, pre-slice before freezing and place pieces in a zip-top bag. Freeze up to 3 months—just thaw at room temp or overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Warm up your bread by popping slices in a 350°F oven for about 5–7 minutes, or toast individual pieces for a quick fix. Frozen slices can go straight into the toaster or oven, bringing back that just-baked taste and texture in no time.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs add wonderful brightness. Just triple the amount (so use 3 tablespoons total) and chop them finely. The bread will be even more fragrant and vibrant.
Can I make Italian Herbs Cheese Bread gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that’s designed for bread baking. Check your yeast and cheese labels to stay gluten-free, and you may need to add a touch more moisture depending on the flour you choose.
What other cheeses can I use?
Get creative—provolone, cheddar, fontina, or even smoked mozzarella are all delicious. Feel free to mix and match cheeses for a unique bread every time!
Do I need a stand mixer?
Not at all! You can knead by hand just as well. It’ll take an extra minute or two, but it’s actually pretty relaxing and gives you a real sense of accomplishment.
Why did my bread turn out dense?
Dense bread can result from under-kneading, not proofing long enough, or if the yeast is past its prime. Make sure your yeast is fresh, knead until elastic, and allow both rising periods in a warm, draft-free spot.
Final Thoughts
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself baking Italian Herbs Cheese Bread on repeat—its cheesy, herby personality fits any occasion. There’s nothing quite like sharing a homemade loaf straight from your oven, so roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the simple magic of baking this classic favorite. You’re going to love every savory bite!
Print
Italian Herbs Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including rise time)
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Italian Herbs Cheese Bread is a flavorful and cheesy bread that is perfect to serve alongside pasta dishes, soups, or as a delicious sandwich base. The bread is infused with aromatic Italian herbs, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese, making it a savory treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary)
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for brushing
Instructions
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine the flour, sugar, yeast, salt, and Italian herbs.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the warm water and olive oil, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead and Add Cheese: Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes, then incorporate the mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Rise and Shape: Let the dough rise until doubled, then shape into a loaf or place in a loaf pan.
- Second Rise and Bake: Let the dough rise again, then bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
- This bread is delicious with various cheeses like provolone or cheddar.
- If using fresh herbs, triple the amount for a more intense flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
