If you are on the lookout for a comforting, flavorful, and utterly delicious treat, look no further than this Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread Recipe. This recipe combines a soft, golden bread dough with a rich, melty filling of mozzarella, ricotta, and fresh spinach, all enhanced by fragrant herbs and spices. It’s the perfect combination of creamy cheese, vibrant greens, and doughy goodness that will make your kitchen smell like a cozy Italian bakery. Whether you’re serving it as a snack, appetizer, or part of a meal, this bread is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread Recipe plays a vital role—from creating the perfect dough texture to delivering the fresh, cheesy, and herbaceous filling. Don’t be intimidated by the list; you’ll find most of these are simple pantry staples that come together easily to make a stunning dish.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for the bread’s soft yet sturdy structure.
- 1 cup warm water: Activates the yeast to help the dough rise beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Feeds the yeast and enhances browning for a golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors in the dough and the filling perfectly.
- 1 packet active dry yeast: The magic ingredient that makes the dough rise and become fluffy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and keeps the bread tender.
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a stretchy, creamy delight inside the bread.
- 1 cup ricotta cheese: Provides a smooth, slightly tangy contrast to mozzarella.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped: Brings vibrant color and a mild, fresh bite.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped: Infuses a sweet, aromatic note that elevates the filling.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic with a mild onion flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread Recipe
Step 1: Activate the yeast
Begin by mixing the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it’s frothy and bubbly—this step confirms your yeast is alive and kicking, which is crucial for such a soft bread.
Step 2: Make the dough
Add the olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring until a rough dough forms. This stage is where your bread dough starts to come together, promising a lovely chewy and tender result once baked.
Step 3: Knead the dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until you achieve a smooth and elastic texture. This kneading step develops the gluten, which gives your bread its perfect structure.
Step 4: First rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl covered lightly with a damp cloth, then let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size. This rise is key for the bread to be light and airy.
Step 5: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when you’re done assembling the stuffed breads, ensuring even baking and a golden crust.
Step 6: Prepare the filling
While the dough is rising, mix the mozzarella, ricotta, chopped spinach, fresh basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This flavorful mixture is what will make every bite absolutely irresistible.
Step 7: Shape the dough
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 6 equal portions. Shape each into a ball, then flatten into a circle—these will become the vessels for your cheesy spinach treasure.
Step 8: Stuff the bread
Place a generous scoop of the cheese and spinach filling in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the dough over and pinch the edges tightly to seal in all that flavorful goodness.
Step 9: Bake the breads
Arrange the stuffed breads on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the bread is golden brown and the filling is melted and bubbly. You’ll know they’re ready when they smell heavenly and look perfectly crusty on the outside.
How to Serve Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or a touch of chopped fresh basil over the top after baking for an added burst of flavor and a beautiful presentation. A light brushing of garlic butter when hot will elevate this bread to gourmet status.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a fresh tomato basil soup or a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. The combination keeps the meal balanced and lets the cheesy spinach bread shine as the star.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread into halves or quarters and serve it as shareable finger food at your next party. Alternatively, transform it into small hand pies for a fun picnic treat, or simply warm and tear it apart to enjoy the gooey filling with every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread keeps well stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture and bring back that delightful melty cheese.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this bread later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap each stuffed bread individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Rewarm the breads in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes until they are heated through and the cheese is gooey again. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the crisp crust.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for the filling?
Yes, but be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to prevent excess moisture that could make the bread soggy.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the mozzarella and ricotta for plant-based cheeses and use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative in the dough for a tasty vegan version.
Can I prepare the dough the night before?
You can prepare the dough and let it rise slowly in the fridge overnight, then bring it to room temperature before shaping and filling.
What can I use instead of fresh basil?
Dried basil or other herbs like oregano or thyme can work, but fresh basil really brightens the filling’s flavor.
How can I make sure the bread is fully sealed so the cheese doesn’t leak?
Pinch the dough edges tightly and press firmly as you seal. You can also slightly dampen the edges with water before folding to help them stick better.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread Recipe is like a warm hug in food form—comforting, flavorful, and thoroughly satisfying. I truly hope you give it a whirl because each bite has a little magic that’s hard to beat. Whether for family dinners, entertaining friends, or a special treat just for yourself, this bread will surely bring joy to your table.
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Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 stuffed breads 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Bread recipe features a soft, homemade dough filled with a rich mixture of mozzarella, ricotta, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these breads offer a delicious, cheesy, and savory treat ideal for snacks, appetizers, or a delightful side.
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Make the Dough: Add olive oil, all-purpose flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a rough dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface.
- Knead the Dough: Knead the dough for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic, ensuring proper gluten development for a good texture.
- Let Dough Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
- Preheat Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine shredded mozzarella, ricotta, chopped spinach, fresh basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Shape the Dough: Once risen, punch down the dough to release air. Divide it into 6 equal portions. Roll each piece into a ball, then flatten each into a circle about 6 inches in diameter.
- Fill and Seal: Place a generous amount of the cheese and spinach mixture in the center of each dough circle. Fold the edges over the filling and pinch to seal completely, forming a stuffed bread pocket.
- Bake: Place the stuffed breads on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the breads are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before using.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling mixture.
- Let the stuffed breads cool slightly before serving for easier handling and better flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best results.
- If you prefer a crispier crust, brush the breads with olive oil or melted butter before baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
