The Ultimate Homemade Pizza Hut Cheesy Bread You Can Make Tonight
Craving that iconic Pizza Hut cheesy bread but don’t want to order takeout? This homemade copycat recipe delivers all the buttery, garlicky, cheesy goodness you remember—but fresher, more delicious, and straight from your own kitchen! With a perfectly soft and fluffy interior, golden crisp exterior, and that signature blanket of melted mozzarella, this recipe will transport you back to your favorite pizza memories.
Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Rise Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes Servings: 8 | Calories: 320 per serving
Why This Copycat Pizza Hut Cheesy Bread Is Better Than The Original
This homemade version captures everything you love about the restaurant favorite while allowing you to:
- Use fresher ingredients with no preservatives or additives
- Customize the seasonings to your exact preference
- Serve it piping hot, exactly when you want it
- Save money compared to ordering delivery
- Impress friends and family with your culinary skills
Ingredients You’ll Need
For The Dough
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1½ cups warm water (110–115°F)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup non-fat dry milk
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
For The Topping
- ½ cup melted butter (divided)
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Grated parmesan cheese, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Flavor Boosters
- Italian seasoning blend
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish
- Cheddar or provolone cheese for a custom cheese blend
- Homemade marinara or ranch dipping sauce
Step-By-Step Instructions
1. Prepare The Yeast Mixture
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon of active dry yeast in 1½ cups of warm water (110-115°F). Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy and activated.
2. Form The Dough Base
Add 2 tablespoons sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ cup non-fat dry milk to the yeast mixture. Stir well to combine. Gradually add enough of the 3 cups of flour to create a loose, soupy batter consistency.
3. Develop The Perfect Dough Texture
Continue adding the remaining flour gradually until you form a moderately stiff dough. Knead the dough by hand on a floured surface (or with a stand mixer using a dough hook) for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Shape And Prepare For Rising
Roll or press the dough into the size and shape of your baking pan. A 9×13 inch pan works well for restaurant-style cheesy bread.
5. Create That Signature Buttery Base
Pour half of the melted butter (¼ cup) onto the bottom of your baking pan, spreading it evenly. Transfer your shaped dough into the buttered pan.
6. Allow For Quick Rise
Place the pan in a warm, draft-free location and let the dough rise for 15 minutes. It won’t double in size, but will become slightly puffy.
7. Add The Irresistible Toppings
Brush the remaining ¼ cup of melted butter generously over the top of the dough. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, then cover completely with shredded mozzarella cheese. Finish with a light dusting of parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Bake To Golden Perfection
Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges have turned a beautiful golden brown.
9. Slice And Serve
Allow the cheesy bread to cool for 3-5 minutes before slicing into breadsticks or squares. Serve warm with marinara sauce for the authentic Pizza Hut experience.
Pro Tips For Pizza Hut-Level Results
- Temperature matters: Use warm (not hot) water when activating yeast—too hot will kill the yeast, too cool won’t activate it properly.
- Create the perfect environment: Let your dough rise in a warm area to ensure maximum fluffiness.
- Butter is key: Don’t skimp on buttering both the pan and the top of the dough for authentic Pizza Hut flavor and texture.
- Watch the baking time: Remove the bread once it’s golden brown to maintain that soft, pillowy interior.
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent proper melting. Freshly shredded mozzarella creates that perfect cheese pull.
- Double the batch: This cheesy bread disappears quickly! Consider making extra for leftovers.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Sugar: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Make It Your Own: Delicious Variations
Loaded Supreme Cheesy Bread
Add a sprinkle of cooked Italian sausage, diced bell peppers, and red onions before adding cheese.
Buffalo Chicken Cheesy Bread
Mix shredded rotisserie chicken with buffalo sauce and layer under the cheese for a spicy twist.
Garlic Herb Explosion
Add minced fresh garlic to the butter and sprinkle with Italian herbs before baking.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
This copycat Pizza Hut cheesy bread is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating:
- Oven method: Wrap in foil and heat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes
- Air fryer method: 350°F for 2-3 minutes for perfectly crispy edges
- Avoid microwave reheating which can make the bread tough and rubbery
Perfect Pairings
Complete your homemade Pizza Hut experience by serving this cheesy bread alongside:
- Classic marinara or pizza sauce
- Homemade Caesar salad
- Your favorite pasta dish
- Creamy tomato soup
- Buffalo wings for the ultimate game day spread
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the dough and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allow it to come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe.
Can I freeze this cheesy bread? Absolutely! Bake as directed, cool completely, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Can I use quick-rise yeast instead? Yes, but reduce the rising time by about half.
How can I make this recipe healthier? Try using part-skim mozzarella, whole wheat flour, or reducing the butter by 25%. You can also add vegetables like spinach or diced tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Enjoy this restaurant-quality cheesy bread in the comfort of your home, knowing exactly what ingredients went into making this crowd-pleasing favorite. It’s perfect for game days, movie nights, or anytime you’re craving that unmistakable Pizza Hut flavor!
