Description
A savory, cheesy bread infused with classic Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, topped with melty mozzarella and parmesan. This homemade version is soft, fluffy, and perfect for sandwiches or serving with pasta.
Ingredients
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for kneading)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup warm water (110°F / 43°C)
1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
Extra herbs and cheese for topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Add olive oil, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Gradually stir in the flour until a soft dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and knead in 3/4 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup parmesan cheese.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30–40 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with remaining cheese and a pinch of herbs.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Notes
Substitute mozzarella with provolone or gouda for variation.
Add sun-dried tomatoes or olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Use more red pepper flakes for added spice.
Replace 1 cup flour with whole wheat for a healthier version.
Shape into sticks for cheesy breadsticks; bake slightly shorter.
Store in an airtight container at room temp for 2 days, fridge for 5 days, or freezer for 2 months.
Reheat in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes or toaster oven. Thaw first if frozen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
