Scrumptious Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread in 4 Steps

Name: Scrumptious Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread in 4 Steps
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups high-quality flour; 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) yeast; 1 3/4 cups water; 2 teaspoons salt; 2 tablespoons Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary); 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated

by Jannet Lisa

6 de July de 2025

---Advertisement---

Jump to Recipe

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread is one of those recipes that just *feels* like home. I remember the first time I tried making it; my kitchen was a disaster zone, flour everywhere, but the smell? Oh, the smell of those Italian herbs baking with the cheese…pure magic! I’ve tweaked and perfected this recipe over the years, adding a little more parmesan here, a touch more basil there, until it became *my* version of the perfect savory loaf. The crust is golden and crisp, the inside is soft and chewy, and that cheesy, herby flavor just explodes in your mouth. It’s honestly the best addition to any dinner, especially along side a hearty bowl of pasta! Want to learn how to bake a delicious Italian cheese and herb bread? Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

The flavor is out of this world! That perfect blend of Italian herbs and cheese will make your taste buds sing.
It’s surprisingly easy to make. Don’t be intimidated by bread-making—this recipe is super straightforward.
It’s a total crowd-pleaser. Everyone loves a slice (or two!) of this cheesy, herby goodness.
Perfect for any occasion, from a simple weeknight dinner to a fancy weekend brunch.
You can customize it! Add your favorite cheeses or herbs to make it your own.
It’s way better (and cheaper!) than store-bought. Freshly baked bread is always a win.
The smell alone is worth it! Trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible.

Ingredients for Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

4 cups high-quality flour: I always go for bread flour if I have it on hand; it gives the bread a chewier texture. All-purpose works great too!
1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) yeast: Make sure your yeast isn’t expired! I learned that one the hard way. It should be bubbly when you proof it.
1 3/4 cups water: Lukewarm water is key for activating the yeast. Too hot, and you’ll kill it; too cold, and it won’t wake up!
2 teaspoons salt: Don’t skip the salt! It balances the flavors and controls the yeast.
2 tablespoons Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary): I love using a mix of dried herbs for convenience, but fresh, chopped herbs will take this to another level!
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded: Adds that classic stretchy, cheesy goodness we all crave.
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated: Parmesan adds a salty, savory punch that complements the mozzarella perfectly.

How to Make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Step 1: Combine the flour, yeast, salt, and Italian herbs in a large mixing bowl. I like to whisk them together to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Gradually add the lukewarm water, mixing with a wooden spoon or your hands until a sticky dough starts to form. Don’t worry if it seems a little shaggy at first; it’ll come together as you knead it.
Step 3: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic. It should feel soft and supple, not too sticky. If it’s too wet, add a little flour, a tablespoon at a time.
Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks puffy and airy.
Step 5: Gently punch the dough down to release the air. This is strangely satisfying, trust me!
Step 6: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 7: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). While the oven is heating, let the loaf rest for another 15-20 minutes.
Step 8: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the loaf. Get generous – you want that cheesy crust!
Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the loaf is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely irresistible.
Step 10: Let the homemade Italian herbs and cheese loaf cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This is the hardest part, I know, but it’s worth it to let the flavors meld a bit!

Pro Tips for the Best Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Want to take your Italian herbs and cheese bread to the next level? Here are a few tricks I’ve learned over the years. A little olive oil brushed on the crust before baking gives it an extra golden sheen and a subtle richness. Don’t be shy with the cheese – a generous layer makes all the difference. And finally, let the dough rise in a warm, humid place for the best texture. Trust me; these small changes make a huge difference!

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread - detail 2

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread?

It’s all about the cheese! Use high-quality mozzarella and parmesan, and don’t be afraid to experiment with other Italian cheeses like provolone or asiago for a more complex flavor. The better the cheese, the better the bread!

Can I make Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, shape it into a loaf, and then refrigerate it overnight. Just bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Or, bake the loaf completely and freeze it. When ready to serve, thaw and reheat for a few minutes to get that fresh-baked taste again.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread?

The biggest mistake is using old yeast! Always check the expiration date and proof your yeast before starting. Also, avoid over-kneading the dough, which can make the bread tough. And finally, don’t skip the cooling time – it’s crucial for the bread to set properly before slicing.

Best Ways to Serve Your Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

This Italian herbs and cheese bread is so versatile! I love slicing it thick and serving it warm with a drizzle of olive oil for dipping. It’s also amazing alongside a bowl of hearty pasta or as a base for bruschetta. For a simple but satisfying lunch, try using it to make a gourmet grilled cheese sandwich. Trust me; you can’t go wrong with this cheesy, herby goodness!

Nutrition Facts for Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutrition per slice of this delicious Italian herbs and cheese bread. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients you use, but this should give you a good idea:

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 350mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 10g

This is an estimate and may vary depending on ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Want to keep your Italian herbs and cheese bread fresh? Here’s the lowdown! If you’re planning to enjoy it within a day or two, store it at room temperature in a breadbox or wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap. For longer storage, slice the loaf, wrap the slices individually, and freeze them for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, just pop a slice in the toaster or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until it’s heated through and the cheese is melty again. It’ll taste almost as good as the day it was baked! I promise, you’ll love having this homemade Italian cheese and herb loaf on hand whenever you need it!

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

Got questions about making the perfect Italian herbs and cheese bread? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common questions I get asked, along with my best tips and tricks.

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? What cheeses work best?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and parmesan are classic choices, feel free to experiment. Provolone adds a lovely tang, asiago brings a nutty flavor, and a touch of fontina makes it extra creamy. Just be sure to use cheeses that melt well for that perfect gooey texture. And hey, can you use pre-shredded cheese? Sure, in a pinch, but freshly grated always melts better!

What’s the best way to get a crispy crust on my cheese bread? Should I adjust the baking time or temperature?

A crispy crust is all about the steam! Try placing a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of your oven while the bread bakes. The steam will help create that beautiful, golden-brown crust. Also, make sure your oven is properly preheated. As for adjusting the baking time, keep an eye on it and pull it out when it’s a deep golden brown. Wondering if you can brush it with butter? You bet! It adds flavor and helps with browning.

My dough didn’t rise properly. What could have gone wrong?

Ah, the dreaded dough dilemma! The most common culprit is the yeast. Make sure it’s not expired and that your water is lukewarm, not too hot or cold. Also, the temperature of your rising environment matters; a warm, draft-free spot is ideal. Did you add too much salt? That can inhibit yeast activity too. If all else fails, sometimes yeast just needs a little extra time, so be patient!

Variations of Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread You Can Try

Vegan: Swap out the mozzarella and parmesan for your favorite plant-based cheese alternatives. Use a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tbsp water) to bind the dough. The result? A delicious, dairy-free Italian herb and cheese loaf that everyone can enjoy!
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. You might need to add a little extra water to get the right consistency, but trust me, it’s worth it for a gluten-free Italian herbs and cheese bread that doesn’t compromise on flavor!
Grilled: Slice the baked loaf in half horizontally, brush with olive oil, and grill cut-side down for a few minutes until toasted and warmed through. This adds a smoky char that’s simply irresistible.
Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough or sprinkle some on top of the cheese before baking for a kick of heat. It’s a fantastic way to add an extra layer of flavor to your homemade cheese and herb bread.

Here’s recipesbysophia on Pinterest!
Looking for more recipes? Check out my last recipes!
If you love pasta, you might enjoy this creamy boursin cheese pasta.
You can also find more recipes on Pinterest.