Last updated on November 30th, 2025 at 10:23 am
A warm, savory delight for any occasion
The aroma of freshly baked bread infused with herbs and bubbling cheese is an invitation to gather around the table. This Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread brings together a medley of flavors that celebrate the heart of Italian cooking. Each bite offers a crunchy crust, giving way to a tender, airy inside filled with the warmth of Italian herbs and the richness of melting cheese. It makes a delightful addition to any meal or a perfect snack enjoyed by itself.
What makes this bread special is its simplicity and versatility. It can be served hot straight out of the oven or toasted later for a delightful treat. The colors of the herbs glisten against the golden crust, promising a burst of flavor. This bread is not just food; it’s a centerpiece for sharing stories and creating memories.
Why This Recipe Works
This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread stands out for its inviting flavors and ease of preparation. The blend of fragrant herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme complements the richness of mozzarella and Parmesan, creating a depth of flavor that feels both sophisticated and homey. The texture of the bread is light and airy, contrasting beautifully with the crisp, golden crust that develops during baking.
Beyond its sensory appeal, this recipe excels in its straightforward method, making it achievable even for novice bakers. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal hands-on time, you can prepare a batch that fills your kitchen with a warm, welcoming aroma. Serve it as an appetizer, alongside a hearty soup, or enjoy it toasted for breakfast. Leftovers, if there are any, make for a scrumptious snack or sandwich base the next day, providing a satisfying option for busy schedules.
Time Breakdown
This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for any day of the week. The majority of the time involves passive baking, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients List
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Kitchen Tools
This recipe is designed to simplify your baking experience. You will likely find these tools essential and accessible in your kitchen.
- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Clean kitchen towel
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy, signaling that the yeast is active. The aroma of the yeast will begin to fill the air, indicating that you are on the right track.
Add olive oil, salt, flour, oregano, basil, and thyme to the yeast mixture. Mix with a wooden spoon until it forms a shaggy dough that pulls away from the sides of the bowl. The texture should be soft but not sticky.
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic, feeling the dough become warm in your hands.
Place the kneaded dough into a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size. The dough will puff up, and the faint scent of fermentation will develop nicely.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and knead in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it rest for another 15 minutes while your oven heats. The loaf will slightly rise, promising a soft and cheesy interior.
Bake the bread for 20-25 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. Once out of the oven, the delightful aroma will beckon you to slice into it.
Allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of olive oil or a spread of butter.
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped fresh herbs if available.
- Let the bread cool completely before storing to maintain its structure.
- Pair this bread with a rich marinara sauce for dipping.
- Try different cheeses, such as Fontina or Gruyère, for unique twists.
Simple Comfort, Big Flavor
This Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread represents the comfort of home and the joys of sharing food with loved ones. Its aroma and flavor evoke warm gatherings around the table, creating moments that linger far beyond the meal. Enjoy it fresh from the oven, or save some for later; either way, it delivers satisfaction without hassle. This bread truly embodies the idea that delightful food can be both easy to prepare and deeply gratifying.
What to Serve With This Delicious Italian Herb and Cheese Bread
Pair this flavorful bread with a variety of dishes and drinks that enhance its comforting qualities. A classic marinara sauce brushed with fresh basil offers a delicious contrast, enhancing the herb flavors and making it perfect for dipping.
This bread also complements light soups, particularly a creamy tomato or herbed vegetable soup, creating a satisfying, well-rounded meal. For a casual gathering, serve it alongside a crisp salad, perhaps a Caesar or arugula, to balance the richness of the cheese.
For a drink option, consider a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing Italian soda. Both will add a lovely touch without overwhelming the bread’s flavors.
Nutrition Table
| Nutrient | Amount (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 250 mg |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread
Ingredients
Bread Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp)
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- Add olive oil, salt, flour, oregano, basil, and thyme to the yeast mixture. Mix until it forms a shaggy dough.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough into a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently and knead in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Shape the dough into a round loaf and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let it rest for another 15 minutes.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.
- Allow it to cool slightly before slicing. Enjoy warm.
Notes
Enjoyed this recipe? Leave a review!
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one.
