Savory cheese bread is a crowd-pleaser that brings the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread and the rich, satisfying taste of melted cheese.
While many people are familiar with the classic cheese bread served in steakhouses or as a side dish, today’s recipe will take a more unique and flavorful approach — one that’s easy to make at home and hard to resist.
This version combines different cheeses and optional herbs to create a crusty, cheesy bread with a soft and fluffy inside — perfect for any occasion, from breakfast to parties.
What Makes This Cheese Bread Different?
Most cheese breads rely on a single cheese type or a dense texture. This recipe stands out because it:
-
Uses a blend of cheeses for depth of flavor.
-
Has a light, fluffy texture inside and a crispy crust outside.
-
Can be easily adapted for different taste preferences (herbs, spices, or even fillings).
-
Is perfect as a snack, breakfast, or side dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to create your savory cheese bread:
-
3 cups all-purpose flour
-
1 tablespoon sugar
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
1 tablespoon instant dry yeast
-
1 cup warm milk (not hot)
-
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
-
1 large egg
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
-
Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast. Stir well to distribute the ingredients evenly.
In another bowl, whisk together the warm milk, melted butter, and egg. Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring to form a sticky dough.
Knead the dough for about 8–10 minutes, either by hand or with a stand mixer, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Cover and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 2: Add the Cheese
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a lightly floured surface.
Flatten the dough gently into a rectangle and sprinkle the mozzarella and parmesan evenly over it. If using garlic powder or oregano, add them now.
Roll the dough into a log, sealing the edges. Then, place it into a greased loaf pan or shape it into a round loaf on a baking tray.
Let the dough rise again for 30–40 minutes.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Brush the top of the dough with a bit of melted butter and sprinkle some extra cheese on top if desired. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown and the top is crisp.
Let it cool for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Tips for the Best Cheese Bread
-
Don’t overfill: Too much cheese inside may make it hard to seal the dough and lead to leaks while baking.
-
Use fresh cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts and incorporates better than pre-shredded ones.
-
Add herbs: Chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or thyme can add flavor and visual appeal.
-
For extra crustiness: Bake with a small tray of water at the bottom of the oven to add steam.
How to Store and Reheat
Savory cheese bread is best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
To reheat, wrap slices in foil and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10 minutes. You can also use a toaster oven or air fryer for a crispier finish.
Final Thoughts: A Cheese Bread You’ll Want to Make Again
This savory cheese bread is more than just a side — it’s a versatile, satisfying recipe that can stand alone as a snack or complement almost any meal. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with others, its golden crust and gooey interior will make it a go-to favorite in your kitchen.