Description
A delicious, comforting loaf filled with melted cheese and Italian herbs, perfect for soups, pasta, or sandwiches.
Ingredients
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1¾ cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons dried Italian herbs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Extra flour for dusting
Instructions
- Pour warm water into a large bowl. Stir in sugar, then sprinkle yeast over the surface. Wait 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add flour, salt, and dried herbs to the yeast mixture.
- Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan. Mix until a sticky, shaggy dough forms.
- Turn dough onto a floured surface. Knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot 1–2 hours until doubled.
- Punch down the dough, shape into a loaf, and proof for another 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 450°F. Place a shallow pan on the bottom rack.
- Bake 25–30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
- Transfer to a wire rack and cool for 20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
For a richer loaf, replace half the water with warm milk. Store in a bread box or wrapped in a kitchen towel for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian