Italian Cheese Bread

shared by Patty H.
Ingredients:
Bread:
2-1/2 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 tablespoon active dry yeast (can use instant)
1 cup warm water (120*F)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Topping:
1/4 cup prepared Italian salad dressing* (can also substitute Ranch dressing for a different taste)
1/8 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp ground oregano
1/4 tsp dried thyme
dash pepper (note: I used 3/4 tsp. Italian Seasoning instead of garlic, oregano & thyme)
1-2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1.In a bowl, combine the first four ingredients.
2.Combine water and oil; add to flour mixture. Add additional flour if needed to form a soft dough. Turn onto a floured surface; knead for 1-2 minutes or until smooth and elastic.
3.Place in a greased bowl, turning once to grease top. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 20 minutes. (Optional: if in a hurry, just skip this rise.)
4.Punch the dough down; place on a greased 16" pizza pan and pat into a 16" circle. Brush with salad dressing, using a spoon to spread it around.
5.Combine the seasonings; sprinkle over top. Sprinkle with cheeses.
6.For a fluffier cheese bread, at this point, allow the bread to rest for 15 minutes or so. If you're in a hurry, just skip this rise. (The bread will rise while it bakes, too.)
7.Pre-heat the oven to 450*F. Bake for 11-15 minutes or until golden brown. (cook on rack near bottom to ensure crust fully bakes)
8.Slice into 12 slices. Serve warm.