Easy Cheese Bread (Quick Bread)

Cheese bread is one of those recipes I turn to when I need something delicious on the table fast. This quick bread version skips the yeast entirely, so you can go from mixing bowl to oven in just minutes. It’s soft, cheesy, and has that irresistible golden crust that makes everyone reach for seconds.

I first made this cheese bread on a busy weeknight when I needed a side dish for soup but didn’t have time for traditional bread. The beauty of this recipe is that it uses simple pantry staples and comes together so quickly. The melted butter keeps it tender, while the sharp cheddar creates pockets of gooey cheese throughout. When it bakes, your kitchen fills with that warm, savory aroma that makes everyone gather around. This easy cheese bread works perfectly as a snack, a side for chili, or even sliced for sandwiches. No kneading, no waiting for dough to rise, just mix and bake.

What You’ll Need for This Cheese Bread

Before you start, let me share a quick tip: using sharp cheddar makes a huge difference in flavor. I always reach for a block and shred it myself rather than using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, plus more for topping (I prefer sharp cheddar)
• 1½ cups milk (whole milk gives the best texture)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

Pro tip: If you want extra flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or dried herbs to the dry ingredients. I sometimes mix in fresh chives for a beautiful flecked appearance.

How to Make This Quick Cheese Bread

I recommend gathering all your ingredients before you start so the process flows smoothly. This batter comes together in minutes, so have your baking dish ready.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8×8 inch baking dish or a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Note: An 8×8 pan creates thicker, softer bread; a 9×5 loaf pan makes a taller loaf with more crust.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined. This ensures your leavening is distributed throughout.

Step 3: Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the dry mixture and stir it through with a spatula. Coating the cheese in flour helps prevent it from sinking to the bottom.

Step 4: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the milk and melted butter until well combined. Let the melted butter cool for 1-2 minutes before whisking with the milk to prevent curdling.

Step 5: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold until just combined. You should still see a few small flour lumps (about pea-sized). Stop mixing once you no longer see dry flour streaks. Overmixing will make your cheese bread tough and dense instead of tender.

Step 6: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly with the spatula. The batter will be thick but pourable.

Step 7: Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top. This creates that golden, crispy cheese crust everyone loves.

Step 8: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The edges should pull away slightly from the pan.

Step 9: Let the bread cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This cooling time helps it set so it doesn’t crumble when you cut it.

Perfect Pairings for Cheese Bread

This savory bread pairs beautifully with dishes that have rich broths or sauces to soak up.

Tomato Soup: The classic combination works because the tangy tomato balances the rich, cheesy flavor perfectly.

Chicken Chili: The mild cheese bread cuts through the spice and adds a comforting texture contrast to the hearty beans.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Double down on the cheese for an indulgent lunch. The bread complements the creamy soup without overwhelming it.

Garden Salad: Serve warm slices alongside a crisp green salad for a light but satisfying meal, especially with a vinaigrette dressing.

Beef Stew: The soft texture is perfect for mopping up savory gravy, making it a cozy winter pairing.

More Savory Breads and Comforting Sides

This quick cheese bread makes an excellent companion to hearty soups and stews. Serve it alongside comforting bowls like Creamy Hamburger Potato Soup, Cheeseburger Soup, or Crockpot Chicken Parmesan Soup for a satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug. The cheesy, tender bread is perfect for soaking up rich, flavorful broths.

For a complete comfort food spread, pair this cheese bread with Sweet Potato Honey Cornbread to offer guests variety in bread textures and flavors. Both breads also complement creamy pasta dishes like Crockpot Mac and Cheese beautifully, creating a carb-lover’s dream meal.

Keeping Your Cheese Bread Fresh

Store your cheese bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days if consuming immediately, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days for longer storage. The fridge keeps it fresh longer, but it may dry out slightly.

To reheat, I recommend warming individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or placing them in a 300°F oven for 5-7 minutes until heated through. You can also toast slices lightly for a crispy exterior.

Pro tip: This bread freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.

Common Questions About This Recipe

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