Few things rival the joy of pulling apart a freshly baked loaf of bread, especially when it reveals a gooey, aromatic, herb-filled center. Herbed Cheese-Stuffed Bread elevates classic homemade bread with a rich blend of cheeses and fragrant herbs, making it the perfect accompaniment to soups, salads, or even as a standalone snack.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or looking for a comforting family meal, this bread offers an indulgent and flavorful experience. Here’s how you can bring this irresistible, cheesy delight to your table.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp (or 1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling:
- ½ cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions :
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. In a separate cup, activate the yeast by adding it to warm water, letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes until foamy. Once ready, pour the yeast mixture into the dry ingredients and add olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead the dough for about 8-10 minutes, either by hand or using a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, until it’s smooth and elastic.
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and allow it to rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
Step 2: Create the Cheese Filling
While the dough rises, prepare the herbed cheese filling. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Add the freshly chopped parsley and basil, along with the minced garlic. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
Step 3: Shape and Stuff the Bread
Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, roughly ½ inch thick. Spread the herbed cheese mixture evenly across the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
Starting from one long side, carefully roll the dough into a log, similar to rolling a cinnamon roll. Pinch the edges to seal the filling inside. Place the stuffed dough seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover the loaf with a cloth and let it rest for another 20-30 minutes.
Step 4: Bake the Bread
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the bread has rested, brush the top with the melted butter, and sprinkle with dried oregano and garlic powder. This will give the loaf a golden, flavorful crust as it bakes.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. If the top is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Allow the bread to cool slightly before slicing. The result is a soft, fluffy loaf with a gooey, cheesy, and herb-infused center. Serve it warm for the ultimate experience.
Customizing Your Bread :
This herbed cheese-stuffed bread is highly adaptable. You can switch up the herbs depending on your preference or what’s available. If you like a punch of flavor, try adding a bit of red pepper flakes to the cheese filling for a spicy kick. For a more Mediterranean flair, swap out the mozzarella with feta cheese and toss in some sun-dried tomatoes. The possibilities are endless, and you can make this recipe your own by experimenting with different ingredients.
For those who prefer gluten-free options, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, keeping the rest of the ingredients the same.
Conclusion :
Herbed Cheese-Stuffed Bread is more than just a side dish; it’s a showstopper at any meal. The blend of melty cheese, fresh herbs, and garlic encased in warm, fluffy bread makes every bite memorable. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a dinner party, this bread will quickly become a go-to recipe.
Serve it alongside pasta, soup, or a fresh salad, or enjoy it all on its own for a satisfying treat. Baking this delightful loaf guarantees smiles and requests for seconds!
Source of the picture : Barbara O’Neill
