Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread
Craving the gooey, garlicky goodness of Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread? You’re not alone! This fan-favorite side is a cheesy masterpiece with a crispy crust and bold flavors.
Whether you want to recreate it at home or learn more about what makes it so special, this guide has you covered. We’ll share a simple copycat recipe, fun facts, and tips to satisfy your cheese bread obsession.
Also Read Little Caesars Full Menu Prices
What Is Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread?
Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread is a thick, square-cut bread that’s topped with melted cheese, garlic butter, and Italian spices. It’s baked until golden brown and served in the shape of sticks perfect for dipping in marinara sauce.
Unlike Crazy Bread, which is thin and twisty, this version is more cheesy and rich. It’s a budget-friendly treat that often costs around $6, making it a great choice for pizza nights.
Why People Love It
- Cheesy Bliss: A mix of mozzarella and Muenster cheese melts into every bite.
- Crispy Edges: The crust gets golden and crunchy, thanks to well-seasoned pans.
- Garlic Kick: Buttery garlic topping adds irresistible flavor.
- Easy to Share: Cut into sticks, it’s great for groups or solo snacking.
How to Make Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread at Home
Want to enjoy this treat without leaving your kitchen? This copycat recipe is easy, quick, and uses simple ingredients. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 can of refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough)
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Muenster cheese (or provolone)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (yes, the shaker kind works!)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Cooking spray or oil (for the pan)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prep the Pan: Spray a 9×13-inch metal baking pan with cooking spray. For extra crispiness, use a cast-iron skillet if you have one.
- Shape the Dough: Unroll the pizza dough and press it evenly into the pan. Keep it about 1 inch thick.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Muenster cheese over the dough, pushing it to the edges. Top with Parmesan.
- Bake It: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Make Garlic Butter: While it bakes, mix melted butter with garlic powder.
- Finish with Flavor: Remove the bread from the oven. Brush it with garlic butter and sprinkle Italian seasoning on top.
- Slice and Serve: Let it cool for 5 minutes, then cut into 12 sticks with a pizza cutter. Serve warm with marinara sauce.
Tips for Success
- Cheese Matters: Freshly grated cheese melts better, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.
- Crispier Crust: Brush the pan with oil or butter before adding dough.
- Customization: Add pepperoni or jalapeños for a twist!
What Makes Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread Special?
Ever wondered why this bread stands out? It’s more than just cheese and dough. Here’s the secret sauce (or butter, in this case):
The Dough
Little Caesars uses a thick, chewy pizza dough—similar to their deep-dish style. It’s pressed into square pans, giving it those signature crispy edges.
The Cheese Blend
The combo of mozzarella and Muenster creates a stretchy, melty texture. A dusting of powdered Parmesan adds a salty, nutty kick.
The Seasoning
After baking, it’s brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with Italian herbs like oregano and basil. This final touch seals the deal.
Nutritional Info: What’s in a Bite?
Curious about the calories? Here’s a breakdown per stick (based on a 10-stick order from Little Caesars):
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 7g (2.5g saturated)
- Carbs: 13g
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 230mg
Homemade versions might vary slightly, depending on your ingredients. Want a lighter option? Use low-fat cheese or less butter.
Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread vs. Crazy Bread
Confused about the two? Here’s a quick comparison:
- Italian Cheese Bread: Thick, square, cheesy, with garlic butter and spices.
- Crazy Bread: Thin, twisted breadsticks with garlic butter and Parmesan, no extra cheese topping.
Both are delicious, but Italian Cheese Bread is the cheesier, heartier option.
Why Make It at Home?
Sure, Little Caesars is cheap and convenient, but homemade has its perks:
- Freshness: Straight-from-the-oven flavor beats takeout every time.
- Control: Adjust the cheese, spices, or toppings to your taste.
- Cost: One batch costs less than $5 and feeds a family.
Troubleshooting Your Homemade Cheese Bread
Ran into issues? Here’s how to fix them:
- Soggy Crust? Use a metal pan and preheat it with a little oil.
- Cheese Won’t Melt? Grate it fresh and don’t skimp on the amount.
- Too Bland? Double the garlic powder or add a pinch of salt to the dough.
FAQ’s About Little Caesars Italian Cheese Bread
Is It Vegetarian?
Yes! It contains no meat, just dough, cheese, butter, and spices. Perfect for vegetarians.
Does It Come with Sauce?
At Little Caesars, marinara sauce costs extra (about $0.99). At home, you can pair it with any dipping sauce you like fanch, garlic dip, or pizza sauce.
Can You Freeze It?
Absolutely! Let it cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes.