Of course! This recipe is for a quick and delicious Cheddar Cheese Flatbread that’s soft, chewy, and packed with cheesy flavor. It’s perfect as a side for soups and salads, or torn apart as an appetizer.
Easy Cheddar Cheese Flatbread
This recipe is a hybrid between a soft flatbread and a cheesy focaccia. It requires no yeast and no waiting time, making it a fantastic “cheat” bread you can have on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
· 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
· 2 tsp baking powder
· 1 tsp garlic powder (optional, but recommended)
· 1 tsp dried herbs like oregano or thyme (optional)
· 1 tsp salt
· ½ cup (120ml) plain Greek yogurt or sour cream (full-fat is best)
· ½ cup (120ml) milk (or water)
· 2 tbsp olive oil, plus more for brushing
· 1 ½ cups (about 150g) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
· Toppings (optional): Flaky sea salt, chopped fresh chives or parsley, extra shredded cheese.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, garlic powder, dried herbs (if using), and salt.
- In a separate bowl or jug, mix the Greek yogurt, milk, and olive oil until fairly smooth.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until just incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the Flatbread
- Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead it gently for about 1 minute, just until it comes together into a smooth ball. Don’t overwork it.
- Press or roll the dough into a rough oval or rectangle, about ½-inch (1 cm) thick.
- Transfer the shaped dough to the prepared baking sheet.
Step 3: Top and Bake
- Brush the top of the dough lightly with olive oil.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top, pressing it down gently.
- Add any other optional toppings like a pinch of flaky sea salt.
- Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the flatbread is golden brown on top and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Serve
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes on the pan.
- Slice into wedges or strips and serve warm.
Yeasted Flatbread Variation (For a Chewier Texture)
If you have a bit more time and prefer a chewier, more bread-like texture, this yeasted version is fantastic.
Ingredients for Yeasted Version:
· 1 cup (240ml) warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
· 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
· 1 tsp sugar
· 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
· 1 tsp salt
· 2 tbsp olive oil
· 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
· Coarse salt and herbs for topping
Instructions for Yeasted Version:
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Make Dough: Add the flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
- Shape and Second Rise: Punch down the dough and press it into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan or a large baking sheet. Cover and let rise for another 30 minutes.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Dimple the dough with your fingers, sprinkle with cheese and toppings. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
Serving Suggestions & Pro-Tips
· Dip It: Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for dipping.
· Make it a Meal: Top the flatbread before baking with cooked bacon bits, sliced jalapeños, or caramelized onions for a loaded version.
· Don’t Over-knead: For the no-yeast version, a quick knead is all you need. Over-kneading will make the bread tough.
· Use Pre-shredded Cheese: It works perfectly well, but for the best melt, shred your own cheese from a block.
Enjoy your wonderfully cheesy and easy-to-make flatbread