I’ve always been a huge fan of Subway’s Italian Herb and Cheese bread. That golden crust, the rich cheesy layer, and those fragrant herbs create a flavor-packed experience that’s hard to resist. So naturally, I had to try recreating it at home — and let me tell you, this recipe absolutely nails it. The buttery dough, combined with gooey melted cheese and a savory herb blend, fills the kitchen with the most comforting aroma.

This homemade version has quickly become my go-to bread for sandwiches, garlic bread sides, or even just snacking. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the results are so delicious that you’ll want to bake it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Subway Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Incredible Flavor: The cheesy crust with Italian herbs brings that iconic Subway taste right to your kitchen.
Versatile Uses: Perfect for sandwiches, toast, or as a side to soups and pastas.
Beginner-Friendly: No advanced baking skills needed — just simple steps and great results.
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the dough in advance and bake it fresh when needed.

What Kind of Cheese Should I Use?

For that signature Subway flavor, a blend of mozzarella and parmesan works best. Mozzarella melts beautifully, giving the bread that stretchy, gooey texture, while parmesan adds a rich, salty kick. If you’d like to experiment, try adding asiago, provolone, or cheddar for a twist on flavor.

Options for Substitutions

Cheese Alternatives: If you prefer a sharper taste, swap mozzarella for gruyere or monterey jack. For a milder option, colby jack works well too.
Herbs Variation: While traditional Subway bread includes Italian seasoning, you can mix in oregano, basil, or thyme for a custom herb blend.
Dough Options: While homemade dough provides the best texture, you can use store-bought pizza dough or frozen bread dough if you’re short on time.
Butter Replacement: If you prefer a dairy-free option, olive oil or vegan butter can be brushed over the top with great results.

Ingredients for Copycat Subway Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Bread Flour – Provides structure and chewiness, giving the bread that perfect soft yet sturdy texture.
Yeast – Essential for helping the dough rise and achieve its fluffy interior. Instant or active dry yeast works well.
Sugar – A small amount balances the flavor and helps activate the yeast.
Salt – Enhances the overall taste and strengthens the dough’s structure.
Olive Oil – Adds richness and keeps the bread soft.
Water – Needed to activate the yeast and create the dough’s consistency.
Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully to provide that gooey, stretchy texture.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a rich, nutty flavor to enhance the cheesy crust.
Italian Seasoning – A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme that infuses the bread with signature herbal notes.
Garlic Powder – Provides a savory kick that pairs perfectly with the cheese and herbs.
Butter – Brushed on top to create a golden, glossy finish and add richness.

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine bread flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, mixing until the dough comes together. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and divide it into 4 equal portions. Shape each piece into a loaf or baguette-style log. Place the dough logs onto a greased baking sheet, leaving space between them to expand.

Step 3: Add Toppings

Brush the tops of the dough logs with melted butter. Sprinkle generously with mozzarella, parmesan, Italian seasoning, and a light dusting of garlic powder for extra flavor.

Step 4: Final Rise

Cover the prepared dough with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise again for about 30 minutes. This ensures the bread will be light and fluffy inside.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the bread for 18-22 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and lightly crisped on top.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. Enjoy it warm or toasted for the best texture and flavor.

How Long to Cook Copycat Subway Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Bake the bread at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 18-22 minutes. Keep an eye on the top — once the cheese turns golden brown and bubbly, it’s ready. The bread should feel firm on the outside but still soft when pressed gently.

Tips for Perfect Copycat Subway Italian Herb Cheese Bread

Use Fresh Yeast: Ensure your yeast is active and fresh for the best dough rise. Expired yeast may prevent your bread from becoming light and fluffy.
Warm Water Temperature: The ideal water temperature for activating yeast is 110-115°F (43-46°C). Too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold may prevent proper activation.
Don’t Skimp on Butter: Brushing melted butter over the dough before baking enhances both flavor and texture.
Generous Cheese Topping: For the best cheesy crust, apply the cheese generously, especially along the edges for those crispy bits.
Let It Cool Slightly: Allow the bread to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing to ensure the cheese sets properly and the texture stays perfect.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Skipping the Second Rise: This step is crucial for achieving the soft, airy texture Subway bread is known for. Rushing this step may result in dense, heavy bread.
Overloading with Cheese: While cheese is the star here, too much can weigh down the dough or cause excess oil pooling. A balanced layer is key.
Baking at the Wrong Temperature: Baking too hot can burn the cheese before the bread is fully cooked. Stick to 375°F (190°C) for the best results.
Using Cold Water for Yeast: Water that’s too cold won’t activate the yeast properly, leading to poor dough rise.
Not Brushing with Butter: Skipping this step will leave your bread looking dull and missing that signature Subway shine and flavor.

What to Serve With Copycat Subway Italian Herb Cheese Bread

1. Classic Deli Sandwiches

Layer your freshly baked bread with turkey, ham, cheese, and fresh veggies for a perfect sandwich.

2. Homemade Meatball Subs

This bread pairs wonderfully with saucy meatballs and melted cheese.

3. Italian Pasta Dishes

Serve this bread alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or creamy Alfredo for a comforting meal.

4. Soup for Dipping

Try it with tomato basil soup, creamy broccoli cheddar, or minestrone for a warm and cozy pairing.

5. Garlic Butter Spread

Add an extra layer of flavor by spreading garlic butter on top and broiling for a minute.

6. Charcuterie Board

Cut the bread into bite-sized pieces and serve with meats, cheeses, and dips.

7. Breakfast Sandwiches

Use it to create hearty breakfast sandwiches with eggs, bacon, and cheese.

8. Salad Companion

Pair this cheesy bread with a fresh Caesar or Greek salad for a balanced meal.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store leftover bread in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 days. Keep it in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the bread in a sealed bag or container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat before serving for the best texture.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven for a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

Estimated Nutrition

Per Slice (based on 8 servings):

Calories: ~230 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 380mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g

Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?

Yes, but bread flour provides better structure and a chewier texture. If you use all-purpose flour, the bread may be slightly less fluffy but still delicious.

2. How do I know if my yeast is active?

Dissolve the yeast in warm water with a pinch of sugar. If it becomes frothy within 5-10 minutes, it’s active and ready to use. If nothing happens, the yeast is likely expired.

3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.

4. What’s the best way to reheat the bread?

For best results, warm the bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore its crisp crust and soft interior.

5. Can I add extra herbs or spices to the dough?

Definitely! Adding dried oregano, basil, or even red pepper flakes to the dough can enhance the flavor even more.

6. Why is my bread too dense?

Dense bread is often caused by underproofing, kneading too little, or using expired yeast. Ensuring your dough rises properly will solve this issue.

7. Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Substitute vegan butter for regular butter and use vegan cheese in place of mozzarella and parmesan. The result will still be flavorful and delicious.

8. How can I achieve that perfect golden-brown crust?

Brushing melted butter generously on top before baking helps achieve that golden sheen. You can also broil the bread for the final 1-2 minutes for an extra crispy top.

Conclusion

This Copycat Subway Italian Herb Cheese Bread recipe brings all the rich, cheesy goodness of the original right into your kitchen. Whether you’re building a hearty sandwich or simply enjoying it fresh from the oven, this bread is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can recreate that iconic flavor at home. Happy baking!