Randy Chandler
Cheese bread is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as a side, main course, or even appetiser. While there are many ways to make cheese bread, a common method is to bake a loaf of bread with cheese incorporated into the dough. This can be done by twisting the dough with shredded cheese, such as cheddar, or by shaping the dough into a log and sprinkling cheese on top. Cheese bread can also be made by spreading a cheese mixture onto sliced bread and broiling it. In addition to cheese, ingredients such as garlic, herbs, and sun-dried tomatoes can be added to enhance the flavour.
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What You'll Learn
Herbs, garlic, and spices
If you are making a soft cheese bread loaf, you can add herbs and garlic to the dough itself. For instance, you can make a Parmesan Garlic and Herb loaf by mixing in some garlic and herbs with Parmesan cheese and adding it to the dough. You can also make a Cheddar and Herb loaf by adding herbs to the cheddar cheese.
If you are making a twisted or shaped cheese bread, you can sprinkle herbs and spices on top of the cheese before rolling the dough into a log. For example, you can add sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, or olives to the cheese before rolling and twisting the dough.
Additionally, if you are making individual slices of garlic cheese bread, you can spread butter and minced garlic on the bread slices and sprinkle them with salt, parsley, and your choice of cheese. You can also mix butter and garlic together and spread this mixture on the bread slices before broiling. This type of garlic cheese bread can be served with various dishes or enjoyed on its own.
When making cheese bread, you can use any combination of herbs and spices that you like. Some common herbs and spices used in cheese bread include garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and onion powder. You can also experiment with different types of cheese to find combinations that complement the herbs and spices you choose.
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Meat toppings
If you're looking for some meat toppings to add to your cheese bread, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Sausage
Sausage is a classic meat topping that goes well with cheese bread. You can slice the sausage into thin pieces or crumble it on top of the bread before baking. If you're looking for a heartier option, you could also use a thicker sausage patty as a base for the cheese bread.
Beef
For a more substantial meat topping, ground beef is a great option. You can cook the beef with onions, mushrooms, and spices to create a savoury filling for your cheese bread. This option is especially tasty when paired with cheddar cheese, as in the Cheddar Beef Skillet Pull-Apart Bread recipe.
Salami
Salami is a type of cured sausage that can add a nice salty flavour to your cheese bread. You can slice the salami thinly and layer it on top of the cheese, or chop it into small pieces and mix it into the cheese before spreading it on the bread.
Ham
Thinly sliced ham pairs well with cheese, especially melted cheese, as it can get slightly crispy around the edges. You can also try folding or rolling the ham and cheese together for a fancier presentation.
Seafood
For a more unique take on meat toppings, you can try using seafood. Chopped shrimp or crab meat can be mixed with the cheese and other ingredients to create a savoury and slightly briny topping for your bread.
The options for meat toppings on cheese bread are endless, so feel free to experiment with different combinations of meats, cheeses, and other ingredients to find your favourite flavour profile!
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Choosing the right cheese
Go for a strong-flavoured cheese: Since cheese is the star ingredient in cheese bread, it's important to choose a variety that has a strong flavour that can stand up to the other ingredients. Cheeses like cheddar, parmesan, asiago, gouda, colby, and pepper jack all have distinct, robust flavours that will shine through in your bread.
Consider the texture: The texture of your cheese is also important. For cheese bread, it's best to use harder cheeses that can be shredded or grated. Very soft cheeses may not hold up well during the baking process and can make your bread soggy. Shredding or grating the cheese yourself is also recommended, as it ensures the best taste and texture.
Think about the other ingredients: Consider the other ingredients you plan to use in your cheese bread. For example, if you're adding herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, or olives, you'll want a cheese that complements those flavours. Cheddar pairs well with herbs, while parmesan can stand up to stronger flavours like garlic.
Amount of cheese: Depending on how cheesy you want your bread to be, adjust the amount of cheese you use. If you're a cheese lover, don't hold back! You can always add extra cheese pockets or fill your bread with two cups of swirled cheese for an extra indulgent treat.
Experiment with different cheeses: Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese to find your favourite combination. You can make two loaves of bread with different cheeses or try mixing multiple cheeses together. Get creative and let your taste buds be your guide!
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Preparing the dough
Ingredients
Firstly, gather your ingredients. For a basic dough, you will need flour, liquid (water or milk), yeast, and salt. You may also choose to add sugar, garlic, herbs, or spices to enhance the flavour of your dough. If you want a richer dough, you can add butter, eggs, or milk.
Mixing
Next, it's time to mix your ingredients. Combine your dry ingredients, including the flour, salt, and any dried herbs or spices you wish to add. In a separate bowl, whisk together your liquid ingredients, such as milk, water, or melted butter. Gradually add the liquid mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. If you are using yeast, activate it by mixing it with warm water and a pinch of sugar before adding it to the dry ingredients.
Kneading
Once your dough has come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and knead it until it is smooth and elastic. This process should take about 10 minutes. If you are adding cheese to your dough, now is the time to gradually knead it in.
Rising
After kneading, place your dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 to 2 hours, or until it has doubled in size. The rising time will depend on the temperature of your environment and the activity of your yeast.
Shaping
Once your dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. You can then roll it out into a rectangle and add your cheese filling, or shape it into a loaf before baking. If you are adding a cheese filling, sprinkle it over the dough, leaving a small border, and then roll the dough up and shape it as desired.
Proofing
After shaping your dough, place it in a prepared loaf pan and cover it with aluminium foil, plastic wrap, or a kitchen towel. Allow the dough to proof or rise for the second time, which can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. This step will give your bread a lighter texture.
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Serving suggestions
Cheese bread is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cheese bread experience:
As a Side Dish
Cheese bread makes an excellent companion to various meals. It pairs well with soups, particularly tomato soup, creating a comforting and flavourful combination. Serve it alongside a hearty bowl of pasta, or as a side to a salad for a more refreshing option. For a more indulgent treat, dip strips of cheese bread into marinara sauce or pair it with a warm bowl of roasted tomato basil soup.
For Breakfast
Cheese bread can be a delightful breakfast option. Toast a slice and top it with poached eggs, or spread some butter on it and enjoy it alongside your morning coffee or tea. If you're feeling adventurous, add some fresh garlic to your buttered toast for a savoury breakfast.
As an Appetizer
Cheese bread can be cut into smaller pieces to make appetiser bites. Cut the bread into cubes, bake them, and use them as croutons for your salad or soup. Alternatively, cut the bread crosswise for bite-sized pieces that can be served as appetisers at your next gathering.
As a Sandwich
Cheese bread is a fantastic option for sandwiches. Fill it with your favourite sandwich toppings, or go for a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The cheese already in the bread will melt beautifully, creating a delicious and indulgent treat.
With Customizable Fillings and Toppings
Cheese bread is a versatile dish that can be customised to your taste preferences. In addition to cheese, you can add various fillings and toppings to elevate your bread. Try incorporating herbs such as parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, or fresh garlic. If you're feeling adventurous, mix in chopped black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, artichoke hearts, minced shrimp, or crab meat. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, parmesan, mozzarella, or gouda.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheese bread is versatile and can be made with many types of cheese. Popular options include cheddar, parmesan, mozzarella, gouda, colby, and pepper jack.
Cheese bread can be customised with a variety of toppings and fillings. Some options include garlic, herbs, black olives, artichoke hearts, shrimp, crab meat, sun-dried tomatoes, and pesto.
Cheese bread can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 4 days or in the fridge for 5 to 7 days. It can also be frozen as a whole loaf or in slices.
