Poppy Cheese Bread
Poppy Cheese Bread is a savory, cheesy treat featuring a crusty Italian loaf infused with melted cheese and a flavorful mustard and poppy seed topping. Perfect for gatherings or indulgent snacks, it combines crisp edges with gooey interior, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that appeal to cheese lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the bread at an angle from left to right, then right to left without cutting all the way through.
- Stuff the cuts with mozzarella or baby Swiss cheese.
- Mix together the butter, dry mustard, poppy seed, seasoned salt, lemon juice, and dry onion in a saucepan and simmer.
- Cover the bottom and sides of the bread with foil.
- Pour the warm mixture over the bread.
- Cover and bake in a 350°F oven for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of Mozzarella and baby Swiss cheese. If you prefer a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the butter mixture. You can substitute the dry mustard with Dijon mustard for a different taste. Ensure the bread is well-stuffed with cheese to achieve a gooey, satisfying center. For a twist, try adding herbs like oregano or basil.
Serving Suggestions
Poppy Cheese Bread makes a delightful appetizer or side dish and pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or a bowl of soup, like minestrone. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside Italian recipes such as Beverly'S Lasagna or Sauteed Chicken Medallions. Slice it into individual pieces for easy sharing at gatherings or parties.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Poppy Cheese Bread can be wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Poppy Cheese Bread contains roughly 235 calories, with 9g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (41% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1003mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, while Italian bread is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other types such as French bread or ciabatta. Just ensure the bread has a sturdy crust to hold the cheese and butter mixture without falling apart.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the bread and stuff it with cheese, then cover it with the butter mixture and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I do if I don't have poppy seeds?
If you don't have poppy seeds on hand, you can substitute them with sesame seeds or simply omit them. The recipe will still be delicious without this ingredient, but sesame seeds can add a nice crunch if you choose to include them.
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).