Name: Italian Herb and Cheese Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups bread flour; 1 cup warm water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or parmesan); 2 teaspoons active dry yeast

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

why make this recipe

This bread is simple and tasty. It adds herbs and cheese to a soft loaf. You can make it in a bread machine and finish in the oven. It goes well with soups, salads, or sandwiches. It also smells great when baking.

introduction

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a warm, soft loaf with herbs and melted cheese inside. The dough is easy to mix in a bread machine. The bake gives a golden crust and a light crumb. This recipe is good for cooks who want a quick homemade loaf with little fuss.

how to make Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Use a bread machine to mix and knead the dough. Add the cheese near the end of the dough cycle so it folds in without melting. Shape the dough, let it rise, then bake in a pan until golden. Cool before slicing to keep the crumb set.

Ingredients :

3 cups bread flour
1 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup shredded cheese (e.g., mozzarella or parmesan)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast

Directions :

Add the warm water, olive oil, sugar, and salt to your bread machine.
Pour in the bread flour, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Create a small well in the center of the flour and add the yeast.
Select the dough setting on your bread machine and start the cycle.
Once the dough is ready, sprinkle the shredded cheese into the dough and mix lightly.
Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased bread pan.
Let the dough rise until doubled in size, about 30-40 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
Allow to cool before slicing and enjoy with your favorite meal.

how to serve Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Serve warm or at room temperature. Slice and pair with soup, salad, or pasta. Use for sandwiches or toast slices with butter. The bread also makes a good side for grilled meat or roasted vegetables.

how to store Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Let the bread cool fully. Store in a paper bag or a bread box for 1–2 days to keep the crust. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to refresh.

tips to make Italian Herb and Cheese Bread

Use warm water (not hot) to activate the yeast.
Add the cheese near the end of the dough cycle to avoid a gooey mess.
Use bread flour for a better rise and texture.
If dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water at a time. If too wet, add a little flour.
Let the loaf cool before cutting to keep slices neat.

variation (if any)

Swap mozzarella for parmesan, cheddar, or a mix.
Add chopped fresh herbs like basil or rosemary for a brighter flavor.
Mix in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a mild heat.
Make rolls instead of a loaf for individual servings.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this bread without a bread machine?
A: Yes. Mix and knead by hand or with a stand mixer. Let the dough rise until doubled, then shape and bake.

Q: When should I add the cheese?
A: Add the shredded cheese after the dough cycle finishes in the bread machine, or fold it in during the final knead if making by hand.

Q: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes. Use about 1½ teaspoons of instant yeast and mix it with the flour instead of the water.

Q: How do I know the bread is done?
A: The top should be golden brown and the loaf should sound hollow when tapped.

Q: Can I reduce the salt?
A: Yes. You can lower salt to 1/2 teaspoon, but salt helps flavor and yeast activity.

Conclusion

This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is an easy, flavorful loaf you can make at home with a bread machine or by hand. For a version inspired by a popular sandwich shop, see the Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Subway Copycat Recipe.