Cheesy Dutch Oven Bread

This cheesy Dutch oven bread is my favorite weekend project when I want fresh bread with a golden crust and gooey melting cheese inside. It is a straightforward recipe that turns simple ingredients into something impressive and shareable, perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in.

I first tried this bread on a whim and it became a staple because it tastes like a bakery loaf yet is incredibly easy to make at home

Ingredients

• 3 cups bread flour: for a chewy texture and strong gluten structure choose a brand you trust to handle hydration well
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast: for reliable rise and minimal waiting steps keep it fresh by storing in the fridge
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher or cooking salt: balances the flavor and strengthens the dough structure
• 1 1/2 cups very warm tap water: activates the yeast and hydrates the dough perfectly avoid hot water that kills yeast
• 2 1/2 cups Colby cheese: freshly shredded melts beautifully and adds a mellow creaminess choose a vibrant orange block rather than pre-shredded for better texture

Instructions

Mix Dry Ingredients:

Combine the bread flour kosher salt and instant yeast in a large bowl. Stir gently until evenly distributed to ensure the salt doesn&t kill the yeast.

Add Water and Form Dough:

Pour the very warm water into the dry ingredients. Use a wooden spoon or your hand to mix just until sticky dough forms. It will seem shaggy and wet but that is right.

First Rise:

Cover the bowl loosely with a clean cloth or plastic wrap and leave it to rise in a warm spot for two to three hours until it has doubled in size and bubbles form on the surface. The time varies with your kitchen temperature.

Preheat Dutch Oven:

Place your empty Dutch oven (including the lid) in the oven and preheat to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial to develop a crispy crust.

Shape Dough with Cheese:

Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and pat into a rough disc. Scatter about half the shredded cheese in the center then fold the dough edges over and gently press to seal the cheese inside.

Transfer to Parchment Paper:

Lay the cheese-filled dough disc on a piece of parchment paper to make transferring easier and keep the Dutch oven clean.

Add Remaining Cheese:

Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese evenly on top of the dough disc creating a cheesy crust on the surface.

Bake Covered:

Lift the parchment with dough into your hot Dutch oven, cover with the lid, and bake for 30 minutes. This steams the bread giving an airy crumb.

Bake Uncovered:

Remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes to brown the top and crisp the crust.

Cool Before Slicing:

Take the bread out and let it cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents the cheese from sliding off and helps the crumb settle for perfect slices.

I have great memories pulling warm slices straight from the Dutch oven and tearing into them on lazy Sunday mornings.

Storage Tips

Store leftover bread loosely wrapped in foil or cloth in the fridge for up to three days to preserve crust texture. Freezing slices in airtight bags extends life to two months. When reheating cover with foil or toast gently to restore crispness.

Ingredient Swaps

Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese can replace Colby offering a sharper or more neutral flavor profile. All-purpose flour might work but bread flour yields stronger structure and better chew. Instant yeast can be swapped for active dry yeast with a little extra proofing time but instant is more convenient.

Serving Ideas

This bread shines simply with some garlic butter or alongside a big bowl of tomato soup. Try it with a charcuterie platter featuring nuts and sweet jams for an elevated snack or appetizer.

This bread is forgiving but these little details guarantee a perfect golden loaf every time.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Why use a Dutch oven for baking this bread?

The Dutch oven traps steam during baking, which helps develop a crisp crust while keeping the inside soft and tender.

→ Can I substitute the Colby cheese with other types?

Yes, cheddar or Monterey Jack cheeses work well, offering different flavor profiles while maintaining a melty texture.

→ How long should the dough rise for best results?

Allow the dough to rise for 2 to 3 hours in a warm spot until it doubles in size, ensuring good texture and flavor.

→ What is the purpose of preheating the Dutch oven?

Preheating the pot creates an ideal baking environment that helps form a golden, crackly crust on the bread.

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, you can refrigerate the dough overnight for a slower rise, which can enhance flavor complexity.