Irresistible Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe You’ll …
There’s something beautifully nostalgic about baking bread from scratch, especially when it fills your kitchen with the comforting scent of garlic, herbs, and warm cheese. The first time I attempted to recreate this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread, I was trying to surprise my kids with a homemade version of their favorite Subway sandwich base. They bit into their sandwiches and paused, wide-eyed—”Mom, this tastes exactly like the real thing!” That was all the motivation I needed to perfect this recipe. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe (Subway-Style) is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Perfect for sandwiches: This bread serves as an amazing base for any sandwich, bringing flavor and texture that elevates your meal.
– Homemade goodness: There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of creating delicious bread from scratch in your own kitchen.
– Versatile pairing: Enjoy it with soups, salads, or on its own with some olive oil for dipping—it’s always a hit!
– Kid-friendly: Your little ones will love helping you make this bread and will be thrilled to eat it too.
– Freezer-friendly: These loaves can easily be frozen for later enjoyment, making them perfect for meal prep.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is one of the most exciting parts of baking! Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful loaves.
For the Dough:
– 1⅓ cups warm water (about 100°F / 37°C)
– 2 tablespoons instant or active dry yeast
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 3 tablespoons vegetable or avocado oil
– ½ tablespoon salt
– 1 large egg (room temperature)
– ¼ cup dried potato flakes (optional, for extra softness)
– 3¾ cups bread flour (or substitute all-purpose)
For the Topping:
– ¼ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
– ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– ½ tablespoon dried oregano
– ½ tablespoon dried parsley
Variations
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few ideas to put your personal twist on your Italian Herb and Cheese Bread.
– Swap the cheese: Try using different types of cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor profile.
– Add herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs such as basil or rosemary to enhance the aroma and taste.
– Experiment with toppings: Top the bread with sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an added burst of flavor.
– Make it gluten-free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing taste.
How to Make Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe (Subway-Style)
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top—a sign your yeast is alive and ready. This step is crucial because activated yeast helps your bread rise properly.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
Add the oil, salt, egg, potato flakes (if using), and flour. Mix on low speed with a dough hook until everything comes together. Then knead on medium speed for 6–8 minutes. The dough should feel smooth and slightly tacky. Kneading develops gluten which gives your bread structure.
Step 3: First Rise
Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. This rising period allows air bubbles to form in the dough which contributes to its lightness.
Step 4: Prepare the Cheese & Herb Topping
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, oregano, and parsley. Mix your shredded cheeses together in a separate bowl or plate. Preparing these toppings ahead ensures they’re ready when you need them!
Step 5: Shape the Loaves
Once risen, punch the dough down gently. Divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 10–12 inch log, like sub sandwich rolls. Place them onto a parchment-lined baking sheet or a silicone baguette tray. Shaping helps create even loaves that will bake uniformly.
Step 6: Second Rise
Cover the shaped loaves loosely with a towel and let them rest for another 20–30 minutes. They should puff up slightly during this time. This second rise enhances texture by allowing more air pockets to form.
Step 7: Add the Topping
Lightly brush the tops of the loaves with water or oil to help the toppings stick. First, sprinkle the herb mix, then layer on the shredded cheese, gently pressing it in so it clings during baking. This step not only adds flavor but also creates an appealing crust.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a sharp knife or blade, score shallow slashes along the top of each loaf (this helps the bread rise properly in the oven). Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown and crusty on top. The scoring allows steam to escape while giving each loaf character.
Step 9: Cool & Enjoy
Let the loaves cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Then slice and serve—or just tear off a warm piece and enjoy it as is! Cooling is essential as it allows moisture distribution throughout the bread ensuring every bite is deliciously soft inside while still having that lovely crust outside.
Now you’re ready to delight family and friends with this homemade Italian Herb and Cheese Bread that’s bursting with flavor!
Pro Tips for Making Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe (Subway-Style)
Baking bread can feel intimidating, but with the right tips, you’ll find it to be a rewarding and joyful experience. Here are some nuggets of wisdom I’ve gathered over the years that will help you achieve the perfect loaves.
– Use warm water: Ensuring your water is at the right temperature (about 100°F / 37°C) activates the yeast effectively, leading to a better rise.
– Don’t skip the kneading: Kneading develops gluten in the dough, which gives your bread that delightful chewy texture. Make sure to knead enough until it’s smooth and slightly tacky.
– Let it rise in a warm spot: Yeast loves warmth! Find a cozy place in your kitchen for the dough to rise, like near a sunny window or on top of a warm oven.
– Be generous with toppings: The combination of cheeses and herbs makes this bread extra special. Feel free to adjust the amounts or add your favorite herbs to customize it.
– Cool before slicing: It might be tempting to cut into your bread while it’s still warm, but allowing it to cool completely helps maintain its structure and moisture.
How to Serve Italian Herb and Cheese Bread Recipe (Subway-Style)
This Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is incredibly versatile! You can serve it as a standalone snack, a side dish, or even as the star of your sandwich creation. Here are a few delightful ways to present this delicious bread.
Garnishes
– Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color.
– Olive oil drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil enhances the flavor while keeping things simple.
Side Dishes
– Garden salad: Pair your bread with a fresh garden salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a light meal.
– Vegetable soup: Serve alongside a comforting bowl of vegetable soup for a satisfying combo.
– Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal veggies complement the flavors beautifully.
– Pasta dishes: This bread pairs wonderfully with any pasta dish—think marinara or pesto!
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prepping can save time during busy weeks, and this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread is perfect for that! Here’s how you can store any leftovers or prepare ahead.
Storing Leftovers
– Keep in an airtight container: Once cooled, store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
– Wrap tightly in plastic wrap: For longer freshness, wrap individual loaves tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Freezing
– Slice before freezing: If you want easy access later, slice the loaves before freezing.
– Use freezer bags: Place slices or whole loaves in resealable freezer bags. Make sure to press out excess air before sealing.
Reheating
– Oven method: To reheat, wrap in aluminum foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
– Microwave method: For quick reheating, place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for about 20 seconds at medium power.
FAQs
Baking often raises questions! Here are some common inquiries about preparing this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread.
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes! While bread flour gives your loaf more structure due to its higher protein content, all-purpose flour works just fine if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! You can replace the egg with flaxseed meal mixed with water or use unsweetened applesauce as an egg substitute. Just ensure your cheese options are dairy-free as well.
How long will this bread stay fresh?
When stored correctly at room temperature, this bread should stay fresh for about 2 days. If frozen, it can last up to 3 months!
Final Thoughts
I hope you enjoy making—and devouring—this Italian Herb and Cheese Bread as much as my family does! It’s such a joy to create something from scratch that brings everyone together around the table. So roll up those sleeves, get baking, and share some love through homemade goodness!
Italian Herb and Cheese Bread (Subway-Style)
Ingredients
Method
- In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy on top.
- Add the oil, salt, egg, potato flakes (if using), and flour. Mix on low speed with a dough hook until everything comes together. Then knead on medium speed for 6–8 minutes.
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover it with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, oregano, and parsley. Mix your shredded cheeses together in a separate bowl.
- Once risen, punch the dough down gently. Divide it into four equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 10–12 inch log.
- Cover the shaped loaves loosely with a towel and let them rest for another 20–30 minutes.
- Lightly brush the tops of the loaves with water or oil. First, sprinkle the herb mix, then layer on the shredded cheese.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Score shallow slashes along the top of each loaf. Bake for 18–22 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the loaves cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Then slice and serve.
