If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with melty, irresistible flavors, this Cheesy Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, boasting a golden crust sprinkled with sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheeses. The secret to its tender crumb lies in Greek yogurt, which not only keeps the bread moist but also adds a subtle tang that perfectly balances the rich cheeses. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, alongside a hearty soup, or simply enjoying it on its own fresh from the oven, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for cheesy, savory goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Bread Recipe relies on simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together beautifully to create a loaf bursting with flavor and texture. Each component plays a key role, from the self-rising flour that gives structure to the tangy Greek yogurt that ensures softness, while the cheeses provide both creaminess and a golden crust.
- Self-rising flour (2 cups): Provides the perfect light and tender base without the need for separate leavening agents.
- Plain Greek yogurt (1 cup): Adds moisture and a subtle tang, which brightens the cheesy richness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup plus ¼ cup for topping): Brings sharp, melty goodness and a vibrant orange hue.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup plus ¼ cup for topping): Offers a nutty, salty flavor and a crisp, golden finish.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp, optional): Gives a subtle aromatic boost without overpowering the bread.
- Black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds just the right hint of spice to balance the richness.
- Milk (1–2 tbsp, if needed): Helps adjust the dough’s consistency for easy handling.
- Melted butter (1 tbsp): Brushed on top for a luscious, shiny finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A splash of color and fresh herbaceous notes for garnish.
How to Make Cheesy Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Surface
Start by preheating your oven to a hot 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the bread develops a beautifully crisp crust while staying soft inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, garlic powder if using, and black pepper. Stir them together until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough feels too dry and crumbly, don’t hesitate to add one or two tablespoons of milk to bring it together—this will make shaping much simpler.
Step 3: Shape Your Loaf
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and gently shape it into a rustic round loaf about 6 to 7 inches wide. There’s no need for perfection here; a homemade, slightly uneven look adds to the charm. Place your loaf onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Score and Top the Bread
Using a sharp knife, score an “X” on top of the loaf—this helps the bread expand evenly as it bakes. Next, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses generously over the top to build a gorgeous cheesy crust that will melt and brown perfectly in the oven.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake your cheesy bread for about 20 to 25 minutes until it turns a beautiful golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom. This alchemy of heat ensures the inside is cooked through without losing its tender, moist crumb.
Step 6: Finish with Butter
As soon as the bread comes out of the oven, brush the top with melted butter while it’s still hot. This final touch adds richness, enhances the crust’s shine, and infuses it with a subtle buttery aroma that’s impossible to resist.
Step 7: Cool, Slice, and Serve
Allow the bread to cool for about 5 minutes. This resting time makes slicing easier and ensures the cheeses set just enough to keep each slice neat. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like, then slice and enjoy this warm, cheesy slice of heaven.
How to Serve Cheesy Bread Recipe
Garnishes
While this bread is delectable on its own, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal brightness that balances the rich cheeses beautifully. You can also try a light dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of olive oil for a little extra flavor punch.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Bread Recipe pairs amazingly well with soups and salads. Think creamy tomato bisque, hearty vegetable soup, or a crisp Caesar salad—the bread’s gooey texture and savory flavor complement both light and rich sides perfectly, transforming any meal into a comforting feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual gathering, turn your cheesy bread into bite-sized bruschetta by slicing it thinly and topping with fresh tomato, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Another fun idea is to serve the bread alongside a series of dips, like spinach artichoke, marinara, or roasted red pepper hummus, for a flavorful sharing platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover cheesy bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the crust from drying out too much while preserving the soft, cheesy interior.
Freezing
You can freeze your leftover cheesy bread to enjoy later by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and then placing it inside an airtight freezer bag. It will keep nicely for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it at room temperature before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture after storing or freezing, reheat cheesy bread in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes. This revives the crispy crust and warms up the cheese perfectly, making the bread taste almost fresh-baked.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour?
Absolutely! If you don’t have self-rising flour on hand, simply mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour with 2 teaspoons of baking powder and ½ teaspoon of salt to mimic self-rising flour. This combination gives the bread the right rise and texture.
Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt? Can I substitute it?
Greek yogurt is key because it adds moisture and a subtle tanginess that enhances the cheese flavor. You can substitute with sour cream or regular yogurt, but full-fat Greek yogurt provides the best texture and richness.
How do I make sure the bread is fully baked?
Baking until the bread is golden and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom is the best test. If you’re unsure, you can insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I add herbs or other flavors to the dough?
Definitely! Fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives complement the cheesy flavor wonderfully. Just mix them into the dough alongside the garlic powder and pepper for a personalized touch.
What is the best cheese to use for topping?
A combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan forms a flavorful, golden crust, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for extra meltiness or Manchego for a unique twist. Just make sure the cheese is shreddable for even coverage.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Bread Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, simple enough for weekday baking yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. Its cozy, cheesy heart and crisp, buttery crust will have everyone coming back for seconds. Don’t wait too long to try it – pull out your ingredients, and get ready to bake a loaf of pure comfort and joy.
Print
Cheesy Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheesy Bread recipe is an easy, rustic loaf combining self-rising flour and creamy Greek yogurt with flavorful cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. Perfectly baked to a golden crust and brushed with butter, it makes a deliciously cheesy, savory treat ideal for snacking or alongside meals.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups self-rising flour (or all-purpose flour + 2 tsp baking powder + ½ tsp salt)
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1–2 tbsp milk (only if dough is too dry)
Topping Ingredients
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for brushing)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the self-rising flour, Greek yogurt, shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. If the dough feels too dry and crumbly, add 1–2 tablespoons of milk to achieve a workable consistency.
- Shape the Loaf: Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Shape it into a rustic round loaf about 6–7 inches in diameter. Transfer the loaf onto the prepared baking sheet. Using a sharp knife, score an “X” on top of the dough to allow for expansion during baking.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Brush with Butter: Immediately after removing the bread from the oven, brush the top generously with melted butter to add richness and a glossy finish.
- Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool for about 5 minutes. Slice it, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve the bread warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use self-rising flour for convenience, or make your own by mixing all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt.
- Full-fat Greek yogurt adds moisture and richness; plain yogurt can be used but may affect texture.
- Adjust milk quantity carefully; the dough should be moist but not sticky.
- Scoring the loaf helps control how it expands and gives it a rustic look.
- Brush with butter while warm to maximize flavor and shine.
- Store any leftovers wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze for longer storage.
