Cheesy Herb Bread Loaf Recipe

Few things are more comforting than the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the kitchen — especially when it’s loaded with gooey cheese and savory herbs. This Cheesy Herb Bread Loaf is perfect for serving alongside pasta, soups, or as the star of a brunch table. With a soft, tender crumb, melted pockets of cheese, and the herby fragrance of garlic, rosemary, and parsley, this loaf is impossible to resist.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) instant yeast

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Filling:

• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 tbsp melted butter

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried parsley

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• ¼ cup chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional)

• Instructions:

  1. Make the Dough:

     • In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

     • Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.

     • Knead on a floured surface for about 8–10 minutes (or 5 minutes in a stand mixer) until smooth and elastic.

     • Place in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

  2. Prepare the Filling:

     • In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, oregano, parsley, and red pepper flakes.

  3. Assemble the Loaf:

     • Roll the dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle.

     • Brush with the herbed butter mixture.

     • Sprinkle evenly with shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and optional chives or green onions.

     • Roll the dough tightly from the long side, pinching the seam to seal.

     • Place seam-side down in a greased loaf pan.

  4. Final Rise & Bake:

     • Cover the loaf and let rise again for 30 minutes.

     • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

     • Bake for 30–35 minutes, until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped.

     • Let cool slightly, then brush the top with a little more melted butter and a sprinkle of herbs, if desired.

     • Tips:

       • For extra cheesiness, add grated parmesan on top before baking.

       • This bread toasts beautifully — slice thick and pan-toast with butter for the ultimate snack.

       • You can use fresh herbs instead of dried — just double the quantity.

       Would you like a variation with jalapeños or sun-dried tomatoes added?