Dinner

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

Name: Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C); 2 tbsp sugar; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish); 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

ByOlivia Monroe February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

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Introduction

Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread, perfect for any meal or snack. Filled with aromatic herbs and two types of cheese, it’s a delightful homemade bread that’s surprisingly easy to make.

A white plate holds several thick slices of garlic bread arranged side by side, each slice showing a golden-brown crust speckled with sesame seeds and a soft, white interior. The inside of the bread is topped with melted white cheese and sprinkled with green chopped herbs, giving a fresh and flavorful look. The texture of the bread is fluffy with some small holes visible, and the edges are slightly crispy. In the background, there is a partial view of the remaining loaf on a wooden board, all set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tbsp sugar
2 tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 tsp salt
2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)

Instructions

Step 1: In a small bowl, stir warm water and sugar until combined. Add the yeast and let it sit for 5 to 7 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the dry ingredients. Stir until a dough forms.
Step 4: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 6: Punch down the dough and knead in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly throughout.
Step 7: Shape the dough into a loaf, place it in a greased loaf pan, and let it rise for another 30 minutes.
Step 8: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush the top of the loaf with melted butter and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until golden brown.
Step 9: Sprinkle the baked bread with fresh parsley. Let it cool for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

For a stronger garlic flavor, sprinkle some minced fresh garlic on top before baking.
Try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the dough for extra Mediterranean flair.
If you prefer a crustier loaf, bake the bread on a preheated baking stone and place a pan of water in the oven to create steam.
Use fresh Italian herbs like rosemary and thyme instead of dried for a more vibrant taste.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the sliced bread in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices in a toaster or oven to restore freshness and melt the cheese slightly.

How to Serve

A white plate holds several thick slices of golden brown garlic bread arranged in a slightly overlapping row. Each slice shows a crispy crust studded with small sesame seeds and a soft, fluffy white interior speckled with melted white cheese and finely chopped green herbs, mostly parsley. The texture looks crunchy on the edges and tender inside, with bits of garlic and seasoning visible. The plate rests on a surface with a white marbled pattern, adding softness to the warm, savory appearance of the bread. In the background, the blurred remainder of the garlic bread loaf sits on the same white marbled surface. 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 substitute instant yeast. Use slightly less (about 2 tsp) and mix it directly with the dry ingredients, then add the warm water and other wet ingredients.

Can I make this bread without cheese?

Absolutely! Omitting the cheeses will result in a flavorful herb bread that’s still delicious. You might want to brush more butter on top before baking for added richness.