Mediterranean No-Knead Cheesy Bread
Mediterranean No-Knead Cheesy Bread is the perfect blend of rustic simplicity and indulgent flavor. By skipping the traditional kneading process, this bread is easy for beginners and busy home cooks while still delivering a light, airy crumb and golden crust. Mediterranean-inspired ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and a combination of cheeses bring layers of flavor, creating a bread that’s perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer. The aroma of melting cheese and herbs as it bakes fills the kitchen, making this bread irresistible. Whether served warm with olive oil, alongside soups, or as part of a mezze spread, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can produce extraordinary results.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rising Time: 12 to 18 hours (overnight)
Bake Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 13 to 19 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Ingredients
Dough
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon instant yeast
1¼ cups warm water
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Cheese and Flavor
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup crumbled feta
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
Topping
Olive oil for brushing
Extra herbs for garnish
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast. Stir to blend.
Add warm water and olive oil. Mix with a wooden spoon until a sticky dough forms.
Fold in mozzarella, feta, oregano, thyme, and minced garlic if using.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel. Let dough rest at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours until doubled in size.
Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F). Place a Dutch oven with lid inside to preheat as well.
Lightly flour a clean surface and gently scrape the dough onto it. Shape into a rough round or oval.
Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven, brush with olive oil, and place dough inside.
Cover and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove lid and bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes until golden and crusty.
Let bread cool on a wire rack for 15 minutes before slicing. Brush lightly with olive oil and garnish with extra herbs.
Tips
Use a large mixing bowl for easy stirring of sticky dough.
Stir, don’t knead—the long fermentation develops gluten naturally.
Cheese can be folded in gently to prevent clumping.
Cover dough properly during the rise to prevent drying.
Use a Dutch oven for a crisp crust; a baking stone works too.
Preheat the Dutch oven for optimal crust formation.
Use warm, not hot, water to activate yeast gently.
Let bread cool slightly before slicing to maintain structure.
Brush with olive oil for flavor and sheen.
Add a pinch of garlic powder or fresh minced garlic for extra aroma.
Variations
Spinach & Feta: Fold in chopped fresh spinach with feta.
Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil.
Olive Medley: Include chopped Kalamata or green olives.
Parmesan Crust: Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top before baking.
Whole Wheat Version: Replace 1 cup flour with whole wheat flour.
Herb Mix: Experiment with rosemary, thyme, or za’atar.
Cheddar & Jalapeño: Add shredded cheddar and diced jalapeños.
Garlic Butter Finish: Brush with garlic-infused olive oil after baking.
Sweet Twist: Mix in caramelized onions and a pinch of nutmeg.
Mini Loaves: Make smaller loaves for individual servings or sandwiches.
Q&A
Can I make this bread without a Dutch oven?
Yes, use a baking stone or sheet tray with a water pan to create steam.
Do I need to knead the dough?
No, the no-knead method relies on long fermentation.
How long can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for 2 to 3 days.
Can I freeze the bread?
Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Is this bread suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, no kneading makes it very forgiving.
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes, any meltable cheese like provolone, gouda, or mild cheddar works.
Do I have to let it rise overnight?
Long fermentation improves flavor and texture, but 6–8 hours works in a pinch.
Can I add seeds on top?
Yes, sprinkle sesame, sunflower, or pumpkin seeds before baking.
How do I get a crispy crust?
Bake covered first, then uncover to finish; preheating the Dutch oven helps.
Can I add herbs to the dough?
Yes, fresh or dried herbs enhance Mediterranean flavor throughout.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Slice)
Calories: 210
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 9g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 1.5g
Sugar: 1g
Conclusion
Mediterranean No-Knead Cheesy Bread demonstrates that simple, minimal-effort techniques can yield extraordinary results. The combination of aromatic herbs, creamy cheeses, and rustic crust makes it a versatile addition to any meal or celebration. Easy to prepare, forgiving for beginners, and infinitely adaptable with herbs, vegetables, or additional cheeses, it fits naturally into Mediterranean-style cooking. Whether served warm as a snack, alongside soups, or as part of a mezze spread, this bread is a testament to the power of straightforward ingredients elevated by technique and flavor.