Dinner

Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe

Name: Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 2 tbsp sugar; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing); 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

ByAndria Russo February 10, 2026February 10, 2026

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Introduction

Discover the comforting flavors of this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread, a perfect homemade loaf bursting with savory herbs and gooey cheese. It’s an inviting treat that pairs wonderfully with soups, salads, or enjoyed on its own. Easy to make, this bread will fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

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 together. Add the yeast and let it sit for 5–7 minutes until it becomes 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 the dough begins to form.
Step 4: Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
Step 5: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it, and let it rise for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.
Step 6: Punch down the dough and knead in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly.
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, then bake for 30–35 minutes until the bread is golden brown.
Step 9: Remove the bread from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, let cool for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dried Italian seasoning for a brighter flavor.
For a richer taste, substitute half of the water with warm milk.
Try adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or olives for extra savory notes.
Brush the top with garlic butter instead of plain melted butter for a more intense garlic flavor.

Storage

Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, freeze the loaf wrapped in foil and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in a toaster or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes to restore freshness.

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 for active dry yeast. Use slightly less instant yeast and add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing in water.

How can I make the bread crust crispier?

To get a crispier crust, place a pan of water in the oven while baking to create steam, or brush the loaf with water before baking. Baking directly on a preheated baking stone can also help.