Introduction**
Cheesy skillet bread is a delightful dish that combines the comforting texture of bread with the rich, gooey goodness of melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, side dishes, or just a hearty snack. Its golden crust and cheesy topping make it a favorite among food lovers worldwide.
—
### **Ingredients**
– **For the bread:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– ¾ cup warm water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– **For the topping:**
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– A pinch of dried oregano or parsley for garnish
—
### **Instructions**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a mixing bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
– Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
– Knead the dough on a floured surface for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
– Place the dough in an oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. **Shape and Pre-Bake:**
– Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
– Punch down the dough and roll it out to fit your skillet (about 9 inches in diameter).
– Place the dough in a lightly oiled skillet lined with parchment paper. Let it rest for 10 minutes.
3. **Add the Topping:**
– Mix the melted butter with minced garlic and brush it over the dough.
– Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the top.
4. **Bake:**
– Bake the bread for 20–25 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
– Remove from the oven and garnish with oregano or parsley.
5. **Serve:**
– Let the bread cool for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!
—
### **History**
Cheesy breads have been a staple in many cultures for centuries. From Italian focaccia to Middle Eastern mana’eesh, variations of bread combined with cheese have long been a symbol of comfort and celebration. The skillet method, in particular, is a modern twist that enhances the texture and makes it easy to prepare.
—
### **Benefits**
– **Nutritional Value:** Provides carbohydrates for energy, protein from the cheese, and healthy fats from olive oil.
– **Versatility:** Can be customized with additional toppings like sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or chili flakes.
– **Convenience:** Easy to prepare and a crowd-pleaser for gatherings.
—
### **Formation**
The bread dough is formed by activating yeast in warm water, allowing it to rise, and baking it in a skillet for an even crust. The topping of melted cheese creates a visually appealing and flavorful layer.
—
### **Nutrition (Per Slice)**
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 9g
– Carbohydrates: 28g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 2g
– Calcium: 15% of daily value
—
### **Conclusion**
Cheesy skillet bread is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Its golden crust and cheesy topping make it irresistible for bread and cheese lovers alike. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or meal accompaniment, it’s sure to be a hit.
—
### **Lovers of Cheesy Skillet Bread**
This dish is adored by families, party hosts, and cheese enthusiasts. Its comforting taste and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for anyone looking to impress guests or satisfy cravings.
Enjoy baking this cheesy masterpiece!
