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Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread: Easy Dinner Recipe for Every Home Cook

Italian Herbs and Cheese Bread

A rustic, aromatic loaf filled with Italian herbs and melty cheeses. Perfect for sandwiches, pasta night, or enjoying warm with butter.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 1 loaf
Course: Bread, Side Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 270
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 packet active dry yeast (2¼ teaspoons)
  • 1¾ cups warm water (about 110°F)
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • extra flour, for dusting

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
  2. Add flour, salt, dried herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add flour as needed if too sticky.
  4. Place kneaded dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours or until doubled in size.
  5. Punch down dough, shape into a loaf or transfer to a greased bread pan. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
  6. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of the oven to create steam.
  7. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped. Internal temperature should reach 200–210°F.
  8. Transfer to a wire rack and cool before slicing.

Notes

For extra flavor, brush the top with melted garlic butter after baking. This bread freezes well—wrap tightly and store for up to 3 months.