I’ve baked this Italian herb and cheese bread loaf quite a few times now, and every single time, it turns out incredible. The crust gets that perfect golden finish with just the right crunch, while the inside stays soft, fluffy, and so tender. The mix of melted cheese, garlic, and fragrant Italian herbs makes every slice warm, savory, and honestly impossible to stop at just one. It’s the kind of bread that makes the whole kitchen smell amazing and has everyone waiting by the oven.
This loaf works for just about everything, family dinners, cozy weekends, or even as part of a holiday spread. It’s beautiful enough to put on the table for guests but simple enough to bake on a regular weeknight. Plus, you can prep the dough ahead, store the baked loaf, and reheat it without losing that soft, cheesy goodness. It’s versatile, comforting, and guaranteed to impress every single time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this loaf special is how much flavor you get from a handful of simple ingredients. The combination of melted mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian herbs, and garlic creates a rich, savory depth in every bite. The crust is lightly crisp, the center stays soft and pillowy, and the cheese brings just the right melty goodness to pull everything together.
It’s also super customizable. You can swap the mozzarella for provolone or Gouda, add a little chili flakes for a kick, or mix in fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for more herby notes. You can even shape the dough into smaller rolls, a pull-apart loaf, or bake it as one large artisan-style round. However, you tweak it, this bread always comes out amazing.
Make a double batch if you can because one loaf disappears fast. It’s perfect with pasta, soups, and roasted meats, but it’s just as good on its own with a little butter or olive oil.
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm water and olive oil, then stir until a soft dough forms. Knead for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
2. Shape the Loaf
Punch down the dough and transfer it to a floured surface. Shape into a long loaf and place it on a greased baking sheet or in a loaf pan. Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
3. Add the Topping
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a small bowl, mix melted butter, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and parsley. Brush the mixture all over the loaf, then sprinkle generously with mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Bake the Bread
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. For an extra crispy top, broil for 1 to 2 minutes at the end.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let the loaf cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, and enjoy that cheesy, herby goodness.
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Loaf
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 2 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water
- 3 tbsp olive oil
For the Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp fresh parsley chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Make the dough and let it rise until doubled.
- Shape into a loaf, let rise again, and prep the topping.
- Brush with butter-herb mix, top with cheese.
- Bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Cool slightly, slice, and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Swap mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or cheddar.
- Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for an earthy touch.
- Turn it into pull-apart bread by cutting the dough into small squares before baking.
- Double the recipe and freeze one loaf — it reheats beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with pasta, soups, or roasted meats. Use it as a base for garlic bread, slice it for sandwiches, or serve with olive oil for dipping. It’s as good on its own as it is paired with a full meal.
Final Thoughts
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Loaf is one of those recipes that feels comforting, smells incredible, and always hits the spot. It’s simple, cheesy, and full of flavor while staying easy enough to make any day of the week. Once you try it, it’ll definitely become a regular at your table.
