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copycat little caesars italian cheese bread

Copycat Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread Recipe

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Recreate the famous Copycat Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread at home with this easy recipe. Made with soft homemade dough, gooey mozzarella, savory Parmesan, and a rich garlic butter topping, this cheesy bread bakes up golden, fluffy, and full of classic Italian flavors. It’s the perfect side dish for pizza night, pasta dinners, or a delicious appetizer for family and friends.

  • Total Time: 1 Hour 33 Minutes
  • Yield: 8 Servings

Ingredients

For the Dough

  • 2¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • ¾ cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

  • 2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

Garlic Butter

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Pinch of salt

Optional

  • Marinara sauce for serving
  • Crushed red pepper flakes
  • Extra Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Add olive oil, flour, and salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth.
  3. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 45–60 minutes or until doubled.
  4. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  5. Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan.
  6. Mix the melted butter, garlic, parsley, and salt. Brush half over the dough.
  7. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the dough, followed by Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
  8. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
  9. Brush with the remaining garlic butter immediately after baking.
  10. Cool for 5 minutes, slice into breadsticks or squares, and serve warm with marinara sauce.

Notes

  • Whole milk mozzarella gives the best cheese pull.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan provides better flavor than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Don’t skip the garlic butter after baking for the authentic restaurant-style taste.
  • Let the dough rise fully for a light and fluffy texture.
  • Leftovers reheat best in the oven or air fryer to maintain crisp edges.
  • Author: MenuHoursUSA
  • Prep Time: 15 Minutes (+ 1 Hour Rising Time)
  • Cook Time: 18 Minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American
  • Diet: Vegetarian