Savory Sourdough Cheese & Herb Quick Bread

As the days grow cooler and soup season makes its return, I always find myself craving a hearty bread to serve alongside those steaming bowls. The only catch? Sometimes I don’t have hours to wait on a traditional loaf.

That’s where this savory sourdough cheese and herb quick bread comes in. It came together on a chilly evening when I needed something warm and comforting in a pinch and it turned out to be the perfect side. Packed with melty cheese, fresh herbs, and that subtle tang of sourdough, this bread is as effortless as it is irresistible.

Why I love this recipe

• Quick and easy – no waiting on long rises; it comes together in under an hour.

• Customizable – swap in your favorite cheeses or herbs to make it your own.

• Perfect soup companion – hearty, savory, and ideal for dipping or serving on the side.

• Sourdough tang – that subtle flavor boost makes it stand out from a regular quick bread.

Ingredients you’ll need

• Flour – the base of your quick bread.

• Baking soda & baking powder – for a perfect rise and tender crumb.

• Salt & spices – to bring out all the savory flavors.

• Fresh herbs of choice – rosemary, thyme, parsley, or whatever you love.

• Cheese of choice – I love sharp cheddar, but any melty cheese works.

• Sourdough discard – adds tang and depth of flavor.

• Milk – keeps the bread soft and moist.

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – for richness and extra tenderness.

• Olive oil – gives moisture and a light savory note.

• Eggs – bind everything together.

• Optional add-ins – chives, red pepper flakes, bacon, or any mix-ins you crave.

How to make savory sourdough cheese & herb quick bread: step-by-step

Can I long ferment the dough? Yes! Just mix the flour, sourdough discard, milk, and Greek yogurt, then let the mixture ferment overnight—either at room temperature or in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, simply stir in the remaining ingredients and continue with the recipe as usual.

Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Food scale/measuring spoons
• 1 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 250 grams (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 8 grams (2 teaspoons) baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 8 grams (1 1/2 teaspoons) salt (adjust to taste and based on cheese saltiness)
• 2 grams (1/2 teaspoon) black pepper
• 2 grams (1/2 teaspoon) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or blend of oregano, basil, & thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (or dried)
• 100 grams (1 cup) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Wet Ingredients:

• 100 grams (1/2 cup) sourdough discard, room temperature
• 180 grams (3/4 cup) whole milk
• 60 grams (1/4 cup) full-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 20 grams (1.5 tablespoons) olive oil (avocado oil works well too)
• 2 large eggs (room temperature)

Optional add-ins:

• 1-2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
• Pinch of red pepper flakes for heat
• Cook bacon or ham (around 80 grams and blotted dry of grease)
• Swap in Gruyere, Asiago, or Fontina for the cheddar for a more gourmet twist

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease or line a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

• Whisk all of the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and rosemary) together until combined.

• Toss in the shredded cheese to the dry mixture and coat evenly for even distribution.

• Whisk the wet ingredients together (sourdough discard, milk, sour cream or Greek yogurt, olive oil, and eggs) until combined.

• Combine the wet and dry mixtures just until incorporated. Don’t over-mix or this will result in a tough bread.

• Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and top with more cheddar or Parmesan cheese (optional).

• Bake the savory sourdough cheese & herb quick bread for 55-65 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. If browning to fast, loosely tent with foil at the 40 minute mark.

Pro Tip: A sourdough quick bread is fully baked once the center reaches 200–205°F (93–96°C) on an instant-read thermometer. This ensures it’s cooked through without drying out.

• Let cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and enjoying!

• Savory sourdough cheese & herb quick bread pairs wonderfully with salted butter or a whipped cream cheese.

Storage Instructions

• Room temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container or wrapped in foil for up to 2 days.

• Longer storage: Keep in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze slices for up to 2 months—just reheat in the toaster or oven before serving.

More savory sourdough discard recipes

• Savory Sourdough Discard Muffins (cheese & chives!)
• Sourdough Discard Cheese Sticks
• Sourdough Discard Garlic Knots
• Sourdough Cheese-Stuffed Biscuit Bombs (discard recipe)