There’s something truly special about homemade bread—the aroma, the warmth, and the satisfaction of baking something from scratch. But what if you could take it up a notch? Herbed Cheese-Stuffed Bread is the perfect fusion of soft, warm bread with a flavorful cheese filling enhanced by fresh herbs and garlic.
This savory loaf is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for family dinners, entertaining guests, or even as a delicious snack. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, this recipe provides a foolproof way to create a crowd-pleasing dish that’ll leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients :
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup milk (optional for softer texture)
For the Cheese Filling:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional for extra crunch)
Instructions :
Step 1: Making the Dough
To start, in a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate small bowl, activate the yeast by mixing it with warm water and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step ensures that your yeast is alive and ready to leaven the dough. Once the yeast is ready, pour it into the dry ingredients along with the olive oil. For a softer dough, you can add a half cup of warm milk at this stage.
Mix the dough until it starts coming together, then transfer it to a floured surface. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. This kneading process develops the gluten, giving your bread a lovely chewy texture. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
Once kneaded, place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Preparing the Cheese Filling
While the dough is rising, you can prepare the flavorful cheese filling. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. These cheeses give the filling a rich, creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor. Next, fold in the fresh parsley and basil, which add a vibrant herbal note, and the minced garlic for an aromatic kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference.
The filling should be thick enough to spread easily without being runny. If you prefer a spicier twist, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or even a few chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the mix.
Step 3: Rolling and Stuffing the Dough
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles, then roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. The key is to ensure the filling is evenly distributed so every slice of bread has that delicious cheesy center.
Now, carefully roll the dough into a log starting from the long side, just like making a jelly roll. Pinch the seams closed to keep the filling secure during baking.
Step 4: Second Rise and Baking
Transfer the rolled dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam side down. Cover the dough with a towel and let it rest for another 20-30 minutes. This second rise allows the dough to expand and become even fluffier.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Just before baking, brush the top of the loaf with melted butter and sprinkle it with garlic powder, dried oregano, and sesame seeds. These toppings will give the bread a golden, flavorful crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior.
Bake the loaf for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the bread sounds hollow when tapped. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover the loaf loosely with foil to prevent it from burning.
Step 5: Serving the Herbed Cheese-Stuffed Bread
Once baked, allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This short resting period helps the cheese set slightly, making it easier to cut. The moment you slice into the loaf, you’ll be greeted with the sight of gooey, melted cheese oozing from the layers.
Serve this bread warm as an appetizer, alongside a hearty soup, or as a side for pasta dishes. It also pairs beautifully with a fresh salad for a light, balanced meal. If you have leftovers (though it’s unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container and reheat slices in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Creative Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize the filling based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. For example, try swapping out mozzarella for sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or even a smoky gouda. If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, add some chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes to the filling for an extra layer of complexity.
For a heartier version, you can also add cooked and crumbled sausage or sautéed spinach into the cheese mixture. The possibilities are endless, and you can make this herbed cheese-stuffed bread uniquely yours by experimenting with different ingredients.
For a gluten-free option, use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend and adjust the liquid ingredients as necessary to achieve the right dough consistency.
Conclusion :
This Herbed Cheese-Stuffed Bread recipe takes the comfort of homemade bread and combines it with the rich, savory flavors of cheese and fresh herbs. Whether served as part of a meal or enjoyed on its own, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite. The soft, pillowy bread and the gooey, herb-infused cheese filling create a perfect balance of textures and flavors that’s hard to resist.
Plus, with plenty of room for creativity, this recipe can be adapted to suit a wide variety of tastes and preferences. Bake it, slice it, and watch it disappear!
Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill
