Dinner

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

Name: Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast; 1 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

ByJulian Dempsey November 4, 2025November 4, 2025

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Introduction

This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is a delightful homemade loaf infused with fragrant Italian seasoning and two types of cheese. Perfectly soft inside with a golden crust, it’s an easy recipe that brings a cozy, savory touch to any meal.

A freshly baked loaf of herb and cheese bread is placed on a wooden cutting board. The bread has a golden brown crust with melted, slightly browned cheese and green herb bits on top, creating a textured and appetizing look. The loaf is partially sliced, revealing soft, light beige bread layers inside swirled with melted cheese and herbs. Steam rises from the warm bread, adding a fresh and inviting feel. In the background, a round bread with a similar topping rests on a cooling rack. The setting is on a white marbled surface with soft natural lighting from the side, showing details of the bread’s crust and toppings clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Activate the yeast by combining warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Pour the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil into the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
Step 4: Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic, or knead with a stand mixer dough hook for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Punch down the dough and roll it into a rectangle. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the surface.
Step 7: Roll the dough into a log and place it seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.
Step 8: Cover the loaf pan and let the dough rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 9: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
Step 10: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a more intense garlic flavor, brush the dough with a little garlic-infused olive oil before baking.
Try adding chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or basil for extra freshness.
Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
If you prefer a softer crust, cover the bread loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Storage

Store the bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze sliced pieces in a resealable bag for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the oven or toaster to restore freshness.

How to Serve

A loaf of freshly baked bread with a rough golden brown crust sits on a wooden cutting board. The bread is cut into five thick slices in the front, showing a soft, airy white inside with small green herb flecks. The crispy crust has a textured look with herbs sprinkled all over, and a bit of steam rises gently from the warm bread. In the blurry background, there is a second smaller loaf on a cooling rack and green plants adding a fresh feel. The whole scene is set against a white marbled surface with natural light highlighting the warm colors and textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, you can use instant yeast. If using instant yeast, mix it directly with the dry ingredients and reduce or skip the rising time needed for activation.

What if my dough doesn’t rise properly?

Make sure your water is warm but not too hot, as high temperatures can kill yeast. Also, place the dough in a warm, draft-free spot to encourage rising. If the dough still doesn’t rise, your yeast may be old or inactive and should be replaced.