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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

This garlicky, cheesy loaf fills the kitchen with irresistible aroma and is perfect warm from the oven with a salad or dipped in marinara.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine Italian
Servings 8 servings
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the dough

  • 3.5 cups all-purpose flour (divided: 3 cups + remaining as needed)
  • 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1.5 teaspoons salt
  • 1 cup warm water (110°F) warm, not hot, to activate yeast
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)

For seasoning and filling

  • 1.5 tablespoons dried Italian herb blend
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese can swap part for provolone or fontina
  • 0.5 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large bowl, whisk warm water (110°F) with sugar.
  • Sprinkle the active dry yeast on top and let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
  • Add olive oil, 3 cups of flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.
  • Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
  • If the dough is too sticky, add flour gradually only until tacky.
  • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel. Let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour until doubled.

Assembling Bread

  • While the dough rises, mix softened butter with minced garlic and the dried Italian herbs.
  • Punch down the risen dough and roll it into a 12×18 inch rectangle on a floured surface.
  • Spread the garlic-herb butter evenly over the dough and sprinkle mozzarella, parmesan, and chopped parsley on top.
  • Tightly roll the dough from the long side into a log and pinch the seam to seal.
  • Place seam-side down into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan and cover. Let rise for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Baking

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  • Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped, with internal temperature around 190–200°F.
  • Let the loaf rest for 10 minutes in the pan before removing to a rack. Slice warm for the best melty-cheese experience.

Notes

Store at room temperature or refrigerate. Freezing available for longer storage. Reheat before serving.
Keyword Cheesy Bread, Garlic Bread, Italian Bread