Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Quick Answer
Mix 3 cups flour, 1½ tsp salt, ½ tsp yeast, 1 tbsp Italian seasoning, 1½ cups warm water. Fold in 1 cup mozzarella + ½ cup Parmesan + 3 minced garlic cloves. Rise 12-18 hrs. Shape, rise 1 hr. Bake in preheated Dutch oven 450°F: 30 min covered, 15 min uncovered.
By Sarah Mitchell • June 15, 2026
A crusty artisan-style bread loaded with Italian herbs, roasted garlic, and pockets of melted mozzarella and Parmesan throughout. This no-knead bread requires just 5 minutes of active work — mix the dough, let it rise, and bake in a Dutch oven for a bakery-quality loaf.
The steam created inside the Dutch oven gives the bread its signature crispy, crackling crust while keeping the interior soft and airy.
About This Recipe
"Italian Herb and Cheese Bread" is a Side Dishes recipe that brings all-purpose flour, salt, instant yeast, Italian seasoning and warm water together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 55 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 8 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The Italian inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp instant yeast
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1½ cups warm water
- 1 cup cubed mozzarella
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- 1
Mix flour, salt, yeast, and Italian seasoning in a large bowl. Add warm water and stir until a shaggy dough forms (no kneading needed).
- 2
Fold in cubed mozzarella, Parmesan, and garlic.
- 3
Cover with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature 12-18 hours until doubled and bubbly.
- 4
Turn dough onto a floured surface. Shape into a round ball by folding edges toward the center. Place on parchment paper, seam-side down.
- 5
Cover and let rise 1 hour. Place a Dutch oven in the oven and preheat to 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes.
- 6
Carefully transfer dough (on parchment) into the hot Dutch oven. Cover and bake 30 minutes.
- 7
Remove lid and bake 15 more minutes until deep golden brown.
- 8
Cool on a wire rack at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. All-purpose flour is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Dutch oven and mixing bowl work especially well for this preparation. Because the recipe is vegetarian, it fits easily into balanced eating plans. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Italian Herb and Cheese Bread" is a versatile Side Dishes dish that pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted protein, a bowl of soup, flatbread and classic Italian sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2–3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating before sealing the container. Reheat gently until warmed through, adding a small splash of liquid if needed to restore the original texture.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does this need such a long rise?
The slow rise (12-18 hours) develops complex flavors and a better crumb structure. The small amount of yeast does the work slowly.
Do I need a Dutch oven?
A Dutch oven is strongly recommended — the trapped steam creates the crispy crust. A baking stone with a steam tray is the alternative.
Can I speed up the rise?
Use 1 tsp yeast and rise in a warm spot for 2-3 hours. The flavor won't be as complex but it works.
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