Sourdough Italian Herb & Cheese Bread

Sourdough Italian Herb & Cheese Bread is a flavorful, aromatic loaf infused with classic Italian herbs and topped with melted cheese. With a soft, chewy texture and a crispy, golden crust, this bread is perfect for sandwiches, garlic bread, or as a standalone savory snack. Whether you use an active sourdough starter or discard, this recipe brings out the rich depth of sourdough flavor with an irresistible cheesy finish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and flavorful – Infused with Italian herbs and garlic for a delicious, aromatic bread.
• Perfect for sandwiches – A sturdy but tender loaf that holds up well to fillings.
• Great way to use sourdough starter – Works with active starter or discard.
• Cheesy and crispy crust – A golden-brown top with melted mozzarella and Parmesan.
• Versatile – Enjoy as toast, garlic bread, or with soups and salads.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:

• 1 cup active sourdough starter (or discard)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

Prepare the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough starter, flour, salt, sugar, garlic powder, oregano, basil, parsley, warm water, and olive oil.
2. Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Cover and let rest for 4-6 hours (or overnight for a deeper sourdough flavor).

Shape the Bread:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Shape the dough into a loaf or divide it into two smaller loaves. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Add the Toppings:

1. Brush the top of the dough with melted butter.
2. Sprinkle mozzarella, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder evenly over the top.

Bake & Serve:

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and crispy on top.
2. Let cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with butter or as a sandwich base.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Calories: 280 kcal per slice

Variations

• Extra Cheesy – Add more mozzarella or a mix of different cheeses for a richer flavor.
• Whole Wheat Version – Replace 1 cup of all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.
• Spicy Kick – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dough for a little heat.
• Garlic Lover’s Version – Use roasted garlic in the dough for an even bolder garlic flavor.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation – Use a gluten-free sourdough starter and a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Reheating – Toast slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in a toaster for a crispy finish.

FAQs

1. Can I use sourdough discard instead of an active starter?

Yes, but using an active starter will give a better rise and a more developed flavor.

2. Can I make this bread without cheese?

Yes, you can omit the cheese for a plain Italian herb sourdough loaf.

3. What’s the best way to knead the dough?

Knead by hand for 8-10 minutes, or use a stand mixer with a dough hook for 5-6 minutes.

4. Can I let the dough rise overnight?

Yes, letting the dough ferment overnight in the refrigerator enhances the sourdough flavor.

5. What other cheeses work well for this bread?

Cheddar, provolone, or gouda can be great alternatives to mozzarella and Parmesan.

6. How do I get a crispier crust?

Bake the bread with a pan of water in the oven to create steam, or brush with more butter before baking.

7. Can I make this into bread rolls instead of a loaf?

Yes, shape the dough into rolls and bake for about 15-20 minutes.

8. What can I serve with this bread?

It pairs well with pasta, soups, salads, or as a base for sandwiches.

9. Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, but use three times the amount of fresh herbs as dried for the best flavor.

10. Can I make this bread in a Dutch oven?

Yes, bake in a preheated Dutch oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes for a crustier loaf.

Conclusion

Sourdough Italian Herb & Cheese Bread is the perfect fusion of tangy sourdough, aromatic herbs, and gooey melted cheese. Whether enjoyed fresh, toasted, or as the base for a sandwich, this flavorful loaf is a must-try for sourdough lovers. With its soft texture and crispy cheese topping, it is an irresistible addition to any meal. Try this recipe today for a homemade bread that is both comforting and delicious!