If you love the idea of biting into a warm, fluffy loaf filled with flavorful herbs and melted cheese, then this Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delightful combination of aromatic dried herbs and rich cheddar cheese baked into a tender, golden loaf that makes every bite a savory celebration. Whether you’re serving it as a side to your favorite meal, using it for sandwiches, or simply enjoying it as a snack, this bread brings an irresistible taste and comforting texture that will quickly become a kitchen favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that work together to create that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays a valuable role in making your bread the star of the table.
- 2 cups flour: The base that holds everything together with the right structure for a tender crumb.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the loaf rise perfectly, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances and balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, or Italian blend): Adds an aromatic punch that elevates the bread’s savory character.
- 1 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella or parmesan also work wonders to infuse cheesy richness.
- 1 cup milk: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 1/4 cup oil: Provides moisture and helps create that soft inside and lightly crispy crust.
- 1 egg: Binds the ingredients and adds to the bread’s structure and richness.
How to Make Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the perfect temperature when your batter is ready. This helps the bread bake evenly from the moment it goes in. Grease or lightly oil your loaf pan to prevent sticking and guarantee a smooth release.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, dried herbs, and shredded cheese. Mixing the dry ingredients first ensures that the herbs and cheese are evenly distributed throughout the batter, giving you consistent flavor in every slice.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk the milk, oil, and egg until smooth. These wet ingredients will create a moist and tender crumb while adding richness to your bread. The oil will also help the loaf stay fresh longer.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula or spoon just until combined. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the bread light and fluffy! The batter will be slightly thick but easy to spread.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it into the oven. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This baking time is just right to meld the cheesy, herbal flavors and create a deliciously satisfying crust.
How to Serve Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe by little touches like a light brushing of melted butter on the warm loaf, or sprinkle some fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top right after baking. These garnishes add a fresh, inviting look and an extra burst of herbal aroma.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with soups and stews, especially those with tomato or vegetable bases. It’s also a fantastic companion to salads and roasted meats, making it a versatile side that never disappoints.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the loaf into thick slices and serve with flavored butter, garlic aioli, or a rich dipping oil. For a fun twist, use slices of this bread for mini sandwiches stuffed with your favorite deli meats and greens or transform it into savory bread crumbs for a crunchy topping on casseroles.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store your leftover savory bread wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to two days, making it perfect for quick snacks or sandwich bases.
Freezing
If you want to keep your bread for longer, slice it first and freeze the pieces individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag. This way, you can grab a slice or two whenever the craving hits without thawing the whole loaf.
Reheating
To enjoy your bread fresh out of the oven, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back that delightful crispiness on the outside while keeping the inside soft and melty.
FAQs
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Absolutely! Fresh herbs are a wonderful alternative and can make the bread even more fragrant, but use about three times the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
What type of cheese works best in the recipe?
Cheddar is the classic choice because of its sharpness and meltability, but mozzarella or parmesan provide different textures and flavors, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
Is this bread gluten-free or can it be made gluten-free?
This recipe uses standard all-purpose flour, which contains gluten, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free as well for best results.
Can I double the recipe for a larger loaf?
Yes, doubling the recipe and using a larger loaf pan or two pans works well. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as larger loaves may need an extra 5 to 10 minutes to bake through.
How do the dried herbs affect the flavor?
The dried herbs add a lovely savory aroma and subtle flavor that complements the cheese without overpowering it, making the bread wonderfully balanced and deliciously savory.
Final Thoughts
The Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe is one of those simple yet extraordinary baked goods that brings warmth, flavor, and joy to any meal or snack time. I truly encourage you to try this recipe—it’s quick to make and absolutely rewarding with every bite. Whether for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or solo indulgences, this bread will quickly become your trusted go-to savory treat.
Print
Savory Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful and moist savory bread loaf packed with sharp cheddar cheese and aromatic herbs, perfect as a side dish, for sandwiches, or simply as a snack. This easy-to-make bread combines classic baking ingredients with a burst of herbaceous flavor, ideal for any meal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried herbs (rosemary, thyme, or Italian blend)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup oil
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while preparing the batter. This ensures it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the bread evenly.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, dried herbs, and shredded cheese to evenly distribute all dry components and herbs throughout the mixture.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the milk, oil, and egg until smoothly blended, which will contribute to the bread’s tenderness and moisture.
- Mix wet and dry: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold them together until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the bread tender and light.
- Prepare for baking: Grease or line a loaf pan, then pour in the batter evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake the bread: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool before slicing: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents it from becoming soggy and helps maintain structure.
Notes
- Use cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese to vary the flavor.
- This bread adds great taste and texture to sandwiches.
- Store leftovers wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.
- Can be sliced and toasted for a crunchy snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Bread, Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
