Imagine a culinary creation that combines the warm comfort of freshly baked bread with the rich, creamy goodness of three different cheeses and vibrant spinach. This Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Bread is more than just a recipe – it’s a show-stopping dish that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary experience. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or when you’re craving something truly special, this bread promises to be the star of any meal.
Ingredients
For the Bread Dough
- 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (240ml) warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Cheese and Spinach Filling
- 2 cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
- 1 cup (100g) mozzarella, shredded
- 1/4 cup (25g) Parmesan, grated
- 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Bread Dough
- Activate the Yeast: In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water with active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and fragrant.
- Make the Dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Knead thoroughly for 8-10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Preparing the Filling
- Sauté Spinach: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté briefly, then add chopped spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts completely and releases its moisture.
- Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, cream cheese, cooked spinach, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well integrated.
Assembling and Baking
- Roll Out Dough: After the first rise, punch down the dough and roll it out into a large rectangular shape on a floured surface.
- Fill the Bread: Spread the cheese and spinach mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Roll and Seal: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log, pinching the seams to seal in the filling completely.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the surface with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until the bread turns a beautiful golden brown.
- Resting Period: Allow the bread to cool for 10 minutes before slicing to let the filling set.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Rise Time: 1 hour
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Servings: 6-8
- Difficulty: Intermediate
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 320-350
- Protein: 15-18g
- Carbohydrates: 35-40g
- Fat: 14-16g
- Calcium: 20-25% Daily Value
Pro Chef Tips
- Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture
- Ensure yeast is fresh for optimal dough rising
- Let the dough rise in a warm, draft-free area
- Don’t overfill to prevent leaking during baking
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Fresh green salad
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Charcuterie board
- As an appetizer or main course
Wine Pairing
Complement this bread with:
- Crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio
- Light-bodied red wine such as Chianti
- Sparkling prosecco
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Prepare dough and filling in advance
- Can be refrigerated before final rise
- Keeps well for 2-3 days when stored in airtight container
- Reheat in oven at 350°F for best results
Get ready to impress your guests with this irresistible Spinach & Cheese Stuffed Bread – a true crowd-pleaser that combines comfort, flavor, and pure culinary joy!