No-Knead Cheddar Bread in the Dutch Oven

Introduction

Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked bread, especially when it’s cheddar-packed, crusty, and rustic. This No-Knead Cheddar Bread takes the guesswork out of artisan bread baking, using a simple Dutch oven to create a golden, crunchy crust and a tender, cheesy interior.

Unlike traditional bread recipes that require extensive kneading, this method allows the dough to develop flavor and structure over a long, slow rise. The result is a loaf that tastes like it came straight from a bakery but is effortless to make at home. It’s perfect for pairing with soups, stews, or even slicing thick for decadent grilled cheese sandwiches.

Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced bread enthusiast, this no-knead method delivers flavorful, cheesy bread with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No kneading required—perfect for easy, hands-off bread baking
• Rustic, crusty exterior with a tender, cheesy interior
• Long, slow rise develops deep flavor naturally
• Made entirely in a Dutch oven for perfect heat distribution
• Sharp cheddar adds a savory punch to every bite
• Versatile—pairs with soups, stews, sandwiches, or as a side

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe makes 4 servings of hearty, cheddar-filled bread.

• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups
• Lukewarm Water (105°F / 40°C): 1 1/2 cups
• Instant Yeast: 1 1/4 teaspoons
• Kosher Salt: 1 1/2 teaspoons
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded: 1 cup
• Flaky Sea Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (for topping)

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Rubber spatula
• Plastic wrap or kitchen towel
• Dutch oven (5–6 quart) with lid
• Oven mitts
• Wire rack for cooling
• Bench scraper or spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shaggy Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, yeast, and kosher salt. Add lukewarm water and stir with a rubber spatula until ingredients are just combined, forming a shaggy, sticky dough. Fold in shredded cheddar cheese evenly. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let rise at room temperature for 12–18 hours until doubled in size and bubbly.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

Lightly flour a work surface and scrape the dough onto it. Fold the dough over onto itself 2–3 times to form a rough ball. Cover loosely with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let rest for 30 minutes for the second proof.

Simultaneously, place a 5–6 quart Dutch oven (with lid) in the oven and preheat to 450°F (232°C).

Step 3: Transfer Dough to Dutch Oven

Carefully remove the hot Dutch oven from the oven. Gently place the dough inside—it will deflate slightly, which is normal. Sprinkle the top with flaky sea salt. Cover the Dutch oven with the lid and place it back into the oven.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Bake covered for 30 minutes. Then, remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the bread is deeply golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 200–210°F (93–99°C).

Step 5: Cool Before Slicing

Remove the Dutch oven from the oven and carefully lift the loaf out using a spatula or by tipping the pot. Transfer the bread to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely for at least 1 hour before slicing. This ensures the crumb sets properly.

Tips & Variations

• Storage: Wrap cooled bread in foil or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Reviving Day-Old Bread: Lightly toast slices or warm the whole loaf in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to refresh the crust.
• Cheese Tips: Shred cheddar from a block for best texture; pre-shredded cheese contains starches that may affect dough rise.
• Flavor Variations: Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder for extra aroma.
• Spicy Option: Mix in finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a cheddar-spice loaf.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

This bread boasts a cheesy, savory interior with a crispy, golden crust. The sharp cheddar provides richness and a slightly tangy flavor that complements soups, chili, and roasted dishes beautifully.

Best Pairings

• French Onion Soup or classic tomato soup
• Chili or stew for a hearty meal
• Thick slices for grilled cheese sandwiches
• Served with herb butter or olive oil for dipping

Nutritional Overview

Per serving:

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Fat: ~12 g
• Saturated Fat: ~7 g
• Carbohydrates: ~42 g
• Protein: ~11 g
• Sodium: ~600 mg

This bread is rich and flavorful, making it an indulgent accompaniment to any meal.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prepare dough the night before for an easy next-day bake.
• After the first rise, shape and refrigerate overnight; bake the next morning.
• Leftover bread freezes well; slice before freezing for easy, single-serve portions.

FAQs

Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes! Bread flour will yield a chewier texture and slightly higher rise.

Do I have to use a Dutch oven?
A Dutch oven gives the best crust and heat retention, but any oven-safe, covered pot will work.

Can I add other cheeses?
Absolutely—try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a sharp gouda for variations.

How do I keep the crust crunchy?
Avoid wrapping the bread while hot. Cool completely on a wire rack before storing loosely.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Stage	Time
First Rise	12–18 hours
Shaping & Second Proof	30 minutes
Baking	45–50 minutes
Cooling	1 hour
Total Time	14–20 hours (including rising)

Serving Suggestions

Serve thick slices of cheddar bread with soups, stews, or as a base for gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Pair with herb butter, olive oil, or roasted garlic for a savory treat. Ideal for brunch spreads, casual dinners, or holiday meals.

Ingredient Spotlight

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

Shredded from a block, this adds richness and savory depth. It melts beautifully into the dough, giving pockets of gooey, cheesy goodness in every bite.

Instant Yeast

No-knead recipes rely on long fermentation. Instant yeast works efficiently to produce a light, airy crumb without extra kneading.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Preheat the Dutch oven in the oven for optimal heat retention and a crispy crust.
• Use a bench scraper to transfer the dough carefully—it’s delicate and sticky.
• Let bread cool completely before slicing to avoid a gummy interior.
• Sprinkle flaky sea salt on top just before baking for that signature finishing touch.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Room Temperature: Store wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Slice before freezing in a resealable bag; lasts up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F oven for 10–15 minutes to refresh crust and melt cheese slightly.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	11 g
Fat	12 g
Saturated Fat	7 g
Carbohydrates	42 g
Sodium	600 mg

Dietary Notes: Vegetarian-friendly, rich in protein and cheese, perfect for indulgent comfort meals.

Expanded Conclusion

This No-Knead Cheddar Bread is a masterpiece of simplicity and flavor. With a crusty exterior, soft cheesy interior, and effortless preparation, it brings the warmth of homemade bread to your table with minimal effort. Perfect for soups, stews, or just enjoying with butter, this bread is a versatile addition to any meal and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With a long rise and a Dutch oven bake, it transforms simple ingredients into a rustic, artisan loaf that’s both comforting and indulgent.

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