Imagine a warm, fluffy bread, crisp on the outside, irresistibly cheesy on the inside, and bursting with golden, gooey flavor. That’s what today’s recipe offers—a traditional Turkish-inspired cheese-stuffed flatbread that looks like a pizza but is, in fact, a super simple no-knead bread. This easy, comforting recipe is perfect for any time of the day—whether served with salad, alongside cured meats, or enjoyed warm and fresh from the oven.
This bread has gained popularity for its perfect balance of simplicity and taste. The dough requires no kneading, making it a great beginner-friendly option. With a golden crust and a cheesy, melty interior, it’s the ideal solution for when you want something hearty, satisfying, and downright delicious.
Let’s dive into the full recipe and discover why this might just become your new favorite go-to cheesy bread.
Cooking Time
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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
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Resting/Rising Time: 30 minutes
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Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes
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Total Time: About 1 hour 10 minutes
Ingredients
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200 ml warm milk
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3 tablespoons sunflower oil (or any neutral oil)
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1 large egg
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 packet dry yeast (about 7g)
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600 g all-purpose flour (plus 1–2 tablespoons extra if needed)
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150 g Turkish cheese or Emmental, grated
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100 g feta cheese, crumbled
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1 egg yolk (for brushing)
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Optional: mozzarella, parsley, chives for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Dough Mixture
In a large bowl, combine warm milk, oil, egg, sugar, salt, and dry yeast. Mix thoroughly until the yeast dissolves. -
Add Flour Gradually
Slowly incorporate the flour, mixing with a spoon until you get a sticky but manageable dough. If too liquid, add an extra tablespoon or two of flour. -
No-Knead Resting Method
Once the dough is combined and elastic, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for about 30 minutes in a warm place. -
Prepare the Cheese Filling
In a separate bowl, combine grated Turkish cheese (or Emmental) with crumbled feta. Mix thoroughly. You can substitute or add mozzarella, Camembert, or Comté depending on what you have. -
Shape and Stuff the Dough
Lightly flour your work surface. Degas the dough by pressing it gently with your hands. Form a smooth ball. Flatten it slightly with your fingers. -
Add Cheese to the Center
Take half the cheese mixture and place it in the center of the dough. Fold the dough around the filling, pinching the seams to seal the cheese inside. -
Flatten Again
Gently flatten the stuffed dough into a disk, roughly 30 cm in diameter, similar to a pizza. -
Top and Bake
Place the flattened dough on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Brush the top with an egg yolk and sprinkle with the remaining cheese. -
Bake
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Watch it closely as ovens may vary. -
Cool and Serve
Let the bread cool for 15–20 minutes before slicing into wedges like a pizza. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley or chives.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1 Slice from 8)
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Calories: 270 kcal
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Protein: 9 g
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Carbohydrates: 30 g
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Fat: 13 g
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Saturated Fat: 5 g
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Fiber: 1.5 g
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Sodium: 360 mg
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Calcium: 150 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This delightful cheese-stuffed flatbread draws inspiration from Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisines where filled breads and no-knead techniques are common. Known for their love of cheese and dough, Turkish households often prepare variations of this bread using different cheese blends, spices, and fillings. Its no-fuss preparation, no need for kneading, and ability to satisfy a crowd make it a frequent choice in many homes.
This recipe has surged in popularity thanks to its resemblance to pizza, without the hassle of traditional dough techniques or long fermentation times. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and uses common pantry staples.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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No-knead dough: Perfect for beginners or when you’re short on time.
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Super fluffy and cheesy: The inside stays soft while the crust crisps up beautifully.
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Versatile: Serve as a main dish, snack, or side.
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Pantry-friendly: Uses basic ingredients found in most kitchens.
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Quick to make: Ready in just over an hour.
Health Benefits
Though indulgent, this bread offers some modest health perks when enjoyed in moderation:
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Calcium from cheese supports bone health.
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Protein helps with satiety and muscle maintenance.
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Homemade over store-bought: Fewer preservatives and additives.
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Customizable fillings allow you to sneak in veggies or use low-fat cheese for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with a fresh green salad for a light lunch.
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Pair with a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting dinner.
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Add to a charcuterie board with olives, cured meats, and pickles.
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Great for brunches, potlucks, or even as a picnic option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping the rising time: The dough needs at least 30 minutes to become fluffy.
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Adding too much flour: The dough should be slightly sticky for a soft result.
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Not sealing the dough well: Poor sealing leads to cheese leaking during baking.
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Overbaking: This can dry out the bread. Keep an eye after 20 minutes.
Pairing Recommendations
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Beverage: Pair with Turkish ayran (a salted yogurt drink), lemonade, or a light red wine.
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Side dishes: Roasted vegetables, hummus, or a Mediterranean-style cucumber yogurt salad.
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Dips: Garlic herb butter, pesto, or spicy tomato relish complement the cheesy flavors.
Cooking Tips
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Use mozzarella if you want that stretchy, gooey cheese texture.
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Avoid cold milk—it can hinder yeast activation.
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For a spicier twist, mix in chili flakes or jalapeños with the cheese.
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Leftovers? Wrap in foil and reheat in the oven to preserve the crisp crust.
Similar Recipes to Try
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Turkish Gözleme – thin flatbread stuffed with spinach and cheese.
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Cheese Naan – Indian soft bread filled with gooey cheese.
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Khachapuri – Georgian boat-shaped bread filled with egg and cheese.
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Mozzarella-stuffed Garlic Knots – fun and kid-friendly.
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Pide – Turkish oval pizza with various fillings.
Variations to Try
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Herbed version: Add chopped parsley or dill into the dough.
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Spicy: Incorporate harissa or red pepper flakes in the cheese mix.
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Meat-filled: Add cooked ground beef or sausage along with the cheese.
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Sweet version: Replace the cheese with sweetened ricotta and a touch of cinnamon.
Ingredient Spotlight: Cheese
Cheese is the heart of this recipe. Let’s explore the stars:
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Feta: Salty, tangy, and crumbly—adds depth of flavor.
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Turkish or Emmental cheese: Melty and rich, with a nutty flavor.
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Mozzarella: Brings that familiar stretchy, gooey goodness.
Using a blend of cheeses enhances both flavor and texture, giving a perfect melt while maintaining structure.
Conclusion
This no-knead cheese-stuffed flatbread is everything you want in a comfort food: easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this recipe hits the spot every time.
Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how a handful of pantry staples can transform into something this magical. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite cheeses or herbs, and let us know how it turns out in your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 12 hours. Let it come to room temperature before using.
2. Can I freeze the baked bread?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
3. What cheese substitutes can I use?
Mozzarella, cheddar, Gouda, or even blue cheese can work depending on your flavor preference.
4. Why didn’t my dough rise properly?
Check that your yeast is active and the milk is warm—not hot or cold. Cold ingredients won’t activate the yeast properly.
5. Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
You can substitute up to 50% with whole wheat flour, but the texture will be denser. Adjust liquid slightly.
6. Is this bread vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! Just ensure the cheeses used do not contain animal rennet if following strict vegetarian guidelines.
7. Can I cook this in a skillet or pan instead of the oven?
While best in the oven, you can try a covered skillet on low heat. Flip halfway through, but results may vary.
8. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?
Ensure you seal the dough properly by pinching the seams tightly.
9. Can I make mini versions for snacks or parties?
Yes! Divide the dough into smaller portions and bake as mini cheese buns or bites.
10. What herbs go well with this bread?
Parsley, chives, thyme, oregano, or even za’atar will elevate the flavor beautifully.