Description
A homemade Italian bread with a crispy crust and soft interior, packed with aromatic herbs and gooey melted cheese. Perfect as a side, snack, or sandwich base.
Ingredients
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
1¾ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
1 tablespoon sugar
1 tablespoon salt
2 tablespoons Italian herb mix (dried basil, oregano, thyme & rosemary)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the flour, salt, Italian herbs, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
- On a floured surface, knead the dough for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic, adding more flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough, shape it into a loaf (or place in a greased bread pan), and let it rise again for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). For a crispier crust, place a shallow pan of water on the oven floor to create steam.
- Bake the bread for 25–30 minutes, until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. Internal temperature should be 200–210°F.
- Let the bread cool on a wire rack before slicing and serving warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Add sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or garlic for variation.
Use cheddar or provolone instead of mozzarella for a sharper flavor.
Store in an airtight container at room temp for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat by toasting slices or warming wrapped in foil at 350°F for 10–15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
