Casserole Bread(Italy)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 55 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: Italian

A savory Italian casserole bread with Parmesan and oregano, featuring a soft interior and golden crust, perfect for family dinners or special gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 pkg dry yeast
  • 2 c warm water (105 to 115°F)
  • 2 Tbsp sugar
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 2 Tbsp soft butter
  • 1/2 c plus 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp dried oregano leaves
  • 4 1/2 c sifted flour

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Sprinkle yeast over warm water and let stand for several minutes.
  3. Stir to dissolve the yeast.
  4. Add sugar, salt, butter, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, oregano, and 3 cups of sifted flour.
  5. Beat with a mixer at low speed until blended.
  6. Beat at medium speed for 2 minutes.
  7. Gradually beat in the remaining flour with a wooden spoon.
  8. Cover the bowl with waxed paper and a towel.
  9. Let the dough rise for 45 minutes.
  10. Stir down the dough.
  11. Beat for 30 seconds or 25 strokes.
  12. Turn the dough into a lightly greased 1 1/2 or 2-quart casserole dish.
  13. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
  14. Bake for 55 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal results, ensure your water temperature is accurate to activate the yeast properly. If you don't have Parmesan, you can substitute with Pecorino or another hard cheese. For added flavor, consider mixing in some minced garlic or herbs de Provence with the dough. If you prefer a softer crust, cover the casserole dish with foil for the first half of baking.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole bread pairs beautifully with Italian recipes such as Meat Rolls Milanese or a hearty soup. Serve it warm alongside a fresh salad or as a side to your favorite pasta dishes. It's also perfect for sandwiches; try it with your favorite deli meats and cheeses for a delicious Meatball Sandwiches.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This will help retain moisture and prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Casserole Bread(Italy) contains roughly 262 calories, with 10g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (109% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (90% of the Daily Value), and calcium (64% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1411mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).

262 kcal 13% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.3g 21% DV
Total Fat 5.4g 7% DV
Carbs 55.5g 20% DV
Fiber 25.1g 90% DV
Sugar 2.3g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1411.5mg 61% DV
Potassium 1107.8mg 24% DV
Cholesterol 8.7mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 43mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 22.9mg 25% DV
Calcium 837.1mg 64% DV
Iron 19.6mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add other ingredients for flavor?

Absolutely! You can customize the bread by adding ingredients such as olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese. Dried herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the flavor. Just be cautious not to overload the dough, as this might affect its rise.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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