Potato cheese bread is the ultimate comfort food — soft on the inside, slightly crisp on the outside, and filled with creamy cheese and fluffy mashed potatoes. This savory bread pairs beautifully with soups, stews, or even as a standalone snack. Its pillowy texture comes from the starch in the potatoes, while the melted cheese adds a rich, gooey bite to every slice.
Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, preparing a side dish for dinner, or looking for a delicious homemade bread option, this recipe delivers both flavor and texture in one unforgettable loaf.
Ingredients
Makes one large loaf (8–10 slices)
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- ½ cup warm milk (110°F or 43°C)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup mashed potatoes (plain, no butter or milk)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 ¾ to 3 cups all-purpose flour
For the Filling:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- Optional: 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or herbs
For the Topping:
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- Optional: extra shredded cheese or garlic powder for sprinkling
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Rise time: 1 ½ to 2 hours
- Baking time: 30 minutes
- Total time: About 2 ½ hours
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and sugar.
- Sprinkle yeast over the top and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Stir in mashed potatoes, butter, and salt until combined.
- Gradually add flour, ½ cup at a time, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Knead for 6–8 minutes on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 60–90 minutes or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape and Fill
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle (about 10×14 inches).
- Spread shredded cheese evenly over the surface, leaving a 1-inch border.
- Sprinkle optional green onions or herbs if using.
- Roll up the dough tightly from the long side and pinch edges to seal.
- Transfer seam-side down into a greased loaf pan or baking tray.
Step 4: Final Rise and Bake
- Cover the shaped loaf and let rise for 30–40 minutes.
- Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with extra cheese or garlic powder if desired.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until golden brown and the loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
- Slice warm and enjoy, or store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside tomato soup or chili for a cozy meal.
- Toast slices and top with eggs for a savory breakfast.
- Cut into cubes and use for cheesy croutons or stuffing.
- Pair with a salad for a light yet satisfying lunch.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Slice (1 of 10) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 |
| Protein | 7 grams |
| Total Fat | 9 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sugars | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 250 milligrams |
Key Benefits:
- Mashed potatoes enhance softness and moisture with fewer fats than oil-based breads.
- Cheese provides protein, calcium, and a rich, savory flavor.
- Lower sugar content makes this bread a more balanced option compared to sweetened bakery items.
Baker’s Tips
- Use leftover mashed potatoes, but avoid ones with milk or butter for best dough structure.
- Let the cheese come to room temperature before using so it melts evenly inside the loaf.
- For a crispier crust, bake on a preheated pizza stone or steel.
- Store leftovers in foil or an airtight bag and reheat in the oven or toaster for best results.
Variations to Try
- Add crumbled bacon to the cheese layer for a smoky, savory boost.
- Use garlic-herb butter on top for extra flavor.
- Swap regular flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
- Incorporate jalapeños or sun-dried tomatoes into the filling for bold flavor.
Potato cheese bread brings the best of soft homemade bread and cheesy goodness into one unforgettable loaf. With its golden crust, gooey center, and fluffy interior, it’s the kind of bread that disappears fast at the dinner table.
Whether served fresh from the oven or toasted the next day, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Bake it once, and you’ll find endless reasons to make it again.