Copycat Subway Italian Herb & Cheese Bread
This homemade version of Subway’s Italian Herb & Cheese Bread is soft, chewy, and topped with a golden, cheesy herb crust. It’s perfect for sandwiches, breadsticks, or even pairing with soup. The best part? It’s simpler to make than you think—and your kitchen will smell like a Subway shop while it bakes.
Ingredients
- For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp active dry yeast 1 packet
- 1 cup warm water 110°F
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour plus more for dusting
- 2 tbsp olive oil plus extra for brushing
- 1 tsp salt
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese or mozzarella-cheddar blend
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- ½ tsp paprika
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: Use vegan cheese shreds.
- Gluten-Free: Swap with a gluten-free flour blend designed for yeast breads.
- Healthier Option: Use half whole-wheat flour and half all-purpose.
- Cheese Swap: Try provolone Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
Instructions
- Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy.
- Make Dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and olive oil. Add yeast mixture and stir into a rough dough.
- Knead: Transfer to a floured surface and knead 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise ~1 hour, until doubled.
- Shape: Punch down dough, divide into 2 equal pieces, and roll each into a 12-inch log. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second Rise: Cover loosely and let rise 30 minutes until slightly puffy.
- Prepare Topping: Mix garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, basil, parsley, paprika, and Parmesan in a bowl.
- Top Bread: Brush loaves with olive oil, sprinkle herb mixture, then cover with mozzarella.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake 20–25 minutes until golden brown and cheese is bubbly.
- Cool & Serve: Let cool slightly before slicing for sandwiches.
Notes
Don’t skimp on the topping—it’s what makes it “Subway style.”
If dough feels sticky, add flour gradually (avoid too much or it’ll be dense).
For extra cheesy crust, sprinkle more mozzarella in the last 5 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Build your favorite sub with deli meats, grilled chicken, or roasted veggies.
Slice into breadsticks and dip in marinara.
Serve alongside soup or salad for a cozy meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store in an airtight bag at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5.
Reheat at 325°F for 5–7 minutes.
Freeze baked loaves wrapped in foil up to 2 months.