Name: Sesame Khachapuri – Cheesy Herb Bread Boats with Honey Butter
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Ingredients: Cheese Filling; 8 oz crumbled feta; 2 cups shredded gouda (or spicy cheddar); 2 cups provolone; 1 beaten egg; Salt and pepper (to taste); Dough Base; 1 lb pizza dough (room temperature); Optional: Thin lemon slices (for topping); Herb Topping; 1 cup chopped parsley; 1 cup chopped cilantro; 1 cup chopped dill; 2 grated garlic cloves; Hot Honey Butter; 3 tbsp butter; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp harissa (optional); Chili flakes (to taste); Pinch of salt; Additional Ingredients; 1 beaten egg (for brushing dough); Sesame seeds (for sprinkling)

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If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, let me introduce you to Sesame Khachapuri. Imagine a warm, golden-brown boat of soft, chewy bread filled with a melty, herby cheese blend, topped with a drizzle of honey butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It’s comfort food at its finest—and it comes straight from the heart of Georgia (the country, not the state!).

This dish is perfect for a weekend brunch, a cozy dinner, or even a fun weeknight project. I first stumbled upon khachapuri during a trip to a local bakery, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The combination of savory cheese, aromatic herbs, and the sweet touch of honey butter is irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in about 50 minutes, including prep and bake time.
Flavor Explosion: A delightful mix of gooey cheese, fresh herbs, and a hint of sweetness.
Vegetarian-Friendly: A hearty, meat-free option that’s satisfying and filling.
Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep.
Customizable: Swap in your favorite cheeses or herbs to make it your own.
No Special Equipment Needed: Just basic kitchen tools and a baking sheet.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pizza Dough (1 pound) – Store-bought or homemade; don’t skip this—it’s the base of your khachapuri.
Sesame Seeds (1/4 cup) – For coating the crust; adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Feta Cheese (8 ounces, crumbled) – Provides a tangy, creamy base.
Gouda or Spicy Cheddar (2 cups, shredded) – Adds richness and depth.
Provolone Cheese (2 cups, shredded) – Melts beautifully and balances the flavors.
Fresh Garlic (2 cloves, grated) – Infuses the cheese mixture with aromatic goodness.
Fresh Herbs (1 cup each of cilantro, parsley, and dill, chopped) – Brightens up the filling and adds freshness.
Eggs (4 total) – Two beaten for the cheese mixture, and two egg yolks for topping.
Honey (1 tablespoon) – Sweetens the butter for a luscious finish.
Salted Butter (3 tablespoons) – For melting into the bread boats.
Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Adds a subtle smokiness to the cheese blend.
Chili Flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat, if desired.
Salt and Black Pepper – To taste.

(Note: A complete list of ingredients with exact measurements is included in the instructions section below.)

How to Make It (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Step 1: Prep the Dough and Oven

Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C). Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle or oval shape. Transfer it to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the edges of the dough with a little olive oil and sprinkle sesame seeds along the perimeter, pressing them gently into the dough.

Step 2: Mix the Cheese Filling

In a large bowl, combine the crumbled feta, shredded gouda, shredded provolone, grated garlic, smoked paprika, and chopped herbs. Add two beaten eggs and season with salt and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Khachapuri

Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a border around the edges. Fold the sides of the dough up and over the cheese, pinching the ends to form a boat shape. If the dough is too sticky, lightly flour your hands or the dough to make shaping easier.

Step 4: Add the Egg Yolk

Carefully crack two egg yolks and place one in the center of each khachapuri. This step is optional but adds a rich, runny egg to the finished dish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the khachapuri in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned. Keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.

Step 6: Finish with Honey Butter

While the khachapuri is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir in the honey until fully combined. Once the khachapuri is out of the oven, brush the crust with the honey butter and sprinkle with additional fresh herbs and chili flakes, if desired.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Let the khachapuri cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness with a side of fresh salad or a glass of crisp white wine.

Helpful Tips

Meal Prep: Assemble the khachapuri up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
Leftovers: Store any leftover khachapuri in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore the crust’s crispness.
Freezing: You can freeze the assembled, unbaked khachapuri. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a chilled glass of white wine for a complete meal.
Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta, mozzarella, or halloumi. Add cooked spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions to the filling for extra flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the khachapuri up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.

Can I freeze this recipe? Absolutely. Assemble the khachapuri, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if I don’t have [ingredient]? No problem! You can substitute the cheeses with whatever you have on hand. Just keep in mind that different cheeses melt differently and may alter the flavor slightly.

Is this recipe good for meal prep? Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can assemble it ahead of time and bake when ready to eat.

How do I make it vegetarian/vegan? For a vegetarian version, omit the egg yolk topping. For a vegan version, use a plant-based dough and cheese alternatives, and skip the egg yolk.

I make this sesame khachapuri whenever I want to impress guests or treat myself to something special. It’s a showstopper that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull off. The combination of the warm, cheesy center, the crispy sesame crust, and the sweet honey butter drizzle is pure magic.

One of my favourite ways to serve it is with a simple arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens cut through the richness of the khachapuri and add a refreshing contrast. And if you’re in the mood for a drink pairing, a chilled glass of crisp white wine or a light beer complements the dish beautifully.

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out—it’s one of my go-tos for busy nights!