One-Bowl Herbed Ricotta Cheesy Bread

If you’re in search of a cozy, flavor-packed bread that will make your kitchen smell like a slice of heaven, look no further than this One-Bowl Herbed Ricotta Cheesy Bread. With the delightful combination of melted brown butter, creamy ricotta, and the aromatic touch of fresh herbs, this bread is the perfect companion for any meal or a delightful snack on its own. What’s even better? You only need one bowl to whip it all together, making cleanup a breeze!

Why Cooks Rave About It

You might wonder why this bread has garnered such a fanfare among home cooks. The answer is simple—its versatility! This One-Bowl Herbed Ricotta Cheesy Bread is not only incredibly easy to make but also offers a unique blend of flavors that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Whether served warm alongside a hearty soup, toasted with a pat of butter for breakfast, or enjoyed as a flavorful sandwich base, it’s sure to impress. The rich, cheesy interior paired with the subtle kick from cayenne pepper makes every bite a delightful experience. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite herbs and cheeses!

What to Buy

Before you dive into the world of cheesy bread-making, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – for that nutty, rich flavor.
• 4 ounces Parmesan cheese – coarsely grated, divided for topping and mixing into the dough.
• 2 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – the backbone of the bread.
• 1 tablespoon baking powder – for leavening and a light texture.
• 1 and 1/2 tablespoons fresh rosemary – finely chopped, to infuse the bread with herbal goodness.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – for a hint of heat.
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper – to enhance the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon salt – essential for taste.
• 1 tablespoon light brown sugar – to balance the flavors.
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese – cubed, for a gooey, cheesy interior.
• 1 cup whole milk – for moisture.
• 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese – adds creaminess.
• 1 large egg – at room temperature, for binding.

Tools & Equipment Needed

Now that we have our ingredients, let’s ensure we have the right tools for the job:

• Large mixing bowl – for combining all the ingredients.
• Whisk – to blend the wet ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber spatula – for folding in the cheese and herbs.
• Measuring cups and spoons – precision is key!
• Baking dish or loaf pan – where the magic happens in the oven.
• Oven mitts – for safely handling hot dishes.

One-Bowl Herbed Ricotta Cheesy Bread — Do This Next

Your journey to cheesy bread bliss begins here. Follow these steps for a perfect loaf:

Step 1: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow it to cook until it turns a golden brown color and develops a nutty aroma. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, light brown sugar, cayenne pepper, and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 3: Add the Herbed Ingredients

Stir in the finely chopped fresh rosemary and half of the grated Parmesan cheese into the dry ingredients.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole milk, ricotta cheese, and the room temperature egg until smooth. Then, add the browned butter, mixing well.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, and gently fold everything together using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.

Step 6: Add the Mozzarella

Finally, fold in the cubed mozzarella cheese, ensuring it’s evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish or loaf pan and transfer the batter into it. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and serve warm!

Fresh Seasonal Changes

One of the best aspects of this One-Bowl Herbed Ricotta Cheesy Bread is its adaptability to seasonal ingredients. Here are some ideas to switch things up:

• Spring: Incorporate fresh chives and dill for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Summer: Add sun-dried tomatoes and basil for a Mediterranean twist.
• Fall: Mix in some pumpkin puree and sage for a cozy autumn flavor.
• Winter: Use thyme and a hint of nutmeg for a warm, comforting bread.

What Not to Do

To ensure your One-Bowl Herbed Ricotta Cheesy Bread turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Don’t overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense bread.
• Avoid using cold ingredients; make sure your egg and milk are at room temperature.
• Don’t skip the browning of the butter; it adds a depth of flavor that is essential.
• Be mindful of your oven temperature; every oven is different, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your One-Bowl Herbed Ricotta Cheesy Bread tasting fresh:

Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat in the oven for a few minutes to regain that delightful warmth and texture.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or feta. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly with each cheese.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before putting it in the oven.

How do I know when the bread is done?

The bread is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It should also spring back slightly when pressed.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend you choose contains xanthan gum for the best results.

Quick Weeknight Wins

Looking for more easy and delicious recipes? Check these out:

• Easy Pizza Dough – Perfect for a quick homemade pizza night!
• Sheet Pan Chicken Fajitas – A hassle-free dinner in one pan!
• 30-Minute Vegan Chili – A hearty and flavorful meal in no time!
• Classic Chocolate Chip Cookies – A sweet way to end any dinner!

Final Thoughts

This One-Bowl Herbed Ricotta Cheesy Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to enjoy the simple pleasures of baking. With its fragrant herbs, gooey cheese, and rich flavors, this bread is sure to become a staple in your home. Whether serving it at dinner, enjoying it with soup, or snacking on it throughout the day, it promises to deliver satisfaction with every bite. Now, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in the warmth and comfort of homemade bread!