Italian Cheese Bread from Little Caesars features a golden, crispy crust topped with a savory blend of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, sprinkled with garlic and Italian herbs, delivering a warm and flavorful cheesy treat.
Equipments
- Oven
- Baking sheet or pizza pan
- Mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cheese grater
- Knife or pizza cutter
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) pizza dough
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses must be freshly shredded and grated to ensure optimal melt and flavor in Italian Cheese Bread. Use unsalted butter combined with minced garlic and Italian seasoning to create the signature savory topping. The pizza dough should be rolled out evenly using a rolling pin for consistent thickness and crispiness. Olive oil and a hint of salt enhance the crust's golden finish during baking on a pizza pan or baking sheet. Your homemade Italian Cheese Bread captures the warm, cheesy goodness of Little Caesars' copycat menu, delivering a deliciously authentic taste.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Lightly grease a baking sheet or pizza pan with olive oil.
- Roll out pizza dough to fit the pan.
- Transfer rolled dough onto the prepared pan.
- Brush dough evenly with melted butter.
- Sprinkle minced garlic over the buttered dough.
- Evenly distribute shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Sprinkle dried Italian seasoning and salt over the cheeses.
- Bake in preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Slice with a knife or pizza cutter.
- Serve warm using a spatula.
Substitution
Italian Cheese Bread from Little Caesars copycat recipe can be customized by substituting shredded mozzarella with provolone or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. If fresh garlic is unavailable, garlic powder works well to maintain the savory essence. You may use store-bought pizza dough to save time or prepare homemade dough for a fresher taste and better texture. A baking sheet lined with parchment paper prevents sticking, while a pizza stone can enhance crust crispiness if you own one. Your choice of herbs can be adjusted according to preference; oregano or basil can replace Italian seasoning with equally delicious results.
Tips
Make sure to evenly roll out the dough so it cooks uniformly and fits the pan without tearing. When brushing the dough with melted butter, avoid over-saturating to prevent a soggy crust. Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor and texture compared to pre-grated versions. Your cheese bread will be best served warm, so slice just before serving to keep the cheese melty and the crust crisp.
Nutritions
Italian Cheese Bread from Little Caesars provides a substantial source of protein primarily from mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, which also contribute calcium essential for bone health. The pizza dough adds carbohydrates, supplying energy, while olive oil and butter offer healthy fats that support cellular function. Garlic and Italian herbs enhance flavor without adding calories, vitamins, or minerals. Your nutritional intake from this bread will include fats, protein, and carbs, making it a satisfying, energy-dense snack or meal component.
Storage
Store your Italian Cheese Bread in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in aluminum foil to maintain its crisp crust and prevent moisture loss. Refrigerate for up to 3 days to keep the cheese fresh and flavorful. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes to restore its warm, cheesy texture before serving.
Variation or Alternatives
You can enhance the flavor of Italian Cheese Bread by incorporating fresh basil or rosemary instead of dried Italian seasoning for a more aromatic herb profile. Substitute part of the mozzarella with provolone or fontina cheese to introduce a deeper, richer melt and flavor complexity. For a crispier crust, try baking the bread on a preheated pizza stone or cast iron skillet instead of a baking sheet. Brushing the dough with garlic-infused olive oil rather than melted butter will give your bread a robust and slightly smoky garlic essence.
Allergies
Italian Cheese Bread from Little Caesars contains common allergens such as milk from the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, which can trigger reactions in those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance. The recipe also includes wheat-based pizza dough, posing a risk for individuals with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease. If you have allergies to dairy or gluten, it's best to check ingredient labels carefully or seek alternative options before enjoying this cheesy treat.
Why this recipe?
Fans of Little Caesars' Italian Cheese Bread appreciate its crispy golden crust and rich layers of melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and asiago cheeses combined with savory Italian herbs. The perfectly balanced flavor profile delivers a satisfying blend of gooey cheese and aromatic seasonings, making it a standout side or snack. Crafting a copycat version allows you to enjoy this indulgent treat fresh from your oven, capturing the authentic taste while customizing ingredients to your preference. Your homemade Italian Cheese Bread promises an irresistible experience, replicating the beloved restaurant favorite with the comfort of home-cooked quality.