Name: Sesame Khachapuri Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Georgian
Ingredients: 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled; 2 cups shredded gouda or spicy cheddar cheese; 2 cups shredded provolone cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 beaten egg (for mixing); 2 egg yolks (for topping); 1 pound pizza dough, at room temperature; 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 cup fresh dill, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, grated; 1 lemon, thinly sliced (optional); 1/4 cup sesame seeds; 3 tablespoons salted butter; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon red harissa sauce (optional); Chili flakes, to taste; 1 beaten egg (for brushing edges)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 64 reviews

If you love the comforting hug of warm, cheesy bread with a delightful twist, you are in for a treat with this Sesame Khachapuri Recipe. This Georgian-inspired masterpiece combines a luscious mix of three cheeses with aromatic herbs and sesame seeds, all wrapped in a golden, pillowy crust. Finished with a runny egg yolk nestled in the center and a drizzle of honey butter sauce, this dish sings with layers of flavor and texture that make every bite irresistible. It’s perfect for sharing, yet so good you’ll want a slice just for yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image of a white plate with two pieces of cheese, one wedge with a shiny red rind on the left and one triangular piece without rind on the right that shows a pale yellow color with a rough texture. In front of the cheese is a small blue and white cup filled with sesame seeds, topped with a few sprigs of dill. Around the plate, there are garlic cloves peeled and whole on a white marbled surface, a halved lemon on the left, and a dark jar with a spoon covered in golden honey to the right. Behind the cheeses is a bowl of fresh green herbs, soft and leafy, sitting on the same white marbled surface. The scene is warm with sunlight casting soft shadows. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Sesame Khachapuri Recipe plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. With simple but thoughtfully chosen components, you’ll end up with a dish that tastes complex and feels like a cozy hug on a plate.

Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds sharpness and tang, brightening the rich cheese blend.
Shredded gouda or spicy cheddar cheese: Provides creamy meltiness and a slightly bold undertone depending on your choice.
Shredded provolone cheese: Adds smoothness and a subtle, buttery smoked flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the savory notes.
Eggs (4 total): Two beaten eggs bind the cheese mixture, while two yolks go on top for that luscious finish.
Pizza dough (1 pound): The soft, elastic canvas that holds all the flavorful fillings together.
Lemon slices (optional): Add brightness and a slight zing that contrasts beautifully with the richness.
Fresh cilantro, parsley, dill: The herb trio brings fresh, green vibrancy that elevates the whole dish.
Garlic: Adds savory depth and a subtle kick to the herb mixture.
Sesame seeds: For that toasty crunch and a beautiful golden finish on the crust.
Salted butter, honey, smoked paprika: Together they create a sweet and smoky butter sauce that finishes the khachapuri perfectly.
Red harissa sauce (optional): Adds a spicy warmth if you like a little heat.
Chili flakes: For an extra kick, sprinkle to taste.

How to Make Sesame Khachapuri Recipe

The image shows a boat-shaped bread with a thick, twisted crust covered in sesame seeds, forming the outer edge. Inside, the bread is topped with a layer of grated cheese that looks soft and finely shredded. Spread across the cheese are thin slices of lemon that add a bright yellow contrast to the creamy color of the cheese. The bread rests on brown parchment paper, with some sesame seeds scattered around, and to the left side, there is a white bowl with fresh green herbs inside, all placed on a white marbled surface. The warm light highlights the textures and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Cheese Filling

Begin by heating your oven to 450° F and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled feta, shredded gouda or cheddar, and provolone cheeses. Add one beaten egg to the mix, then season generously with salt and black pepper. This mix will form the creamy, flavorful heart of your khachapuri, so make sure everything is well incorporated for even distribution inside your dough.

Step 2: Shape the Dough Boats

Divide your room-temperature pizza dough into two equal portions. On a lightly floured surface, gently press or roll each piece into a rough oval about 10 inches long. Transfer the dough ovals onto the prepared baking sheets. Spoon the cheese mixture evenly into the centers, leaving about a one-inch border all around. If you’re using the optional lemon slices, arrange a few atop the cheese for a lovely citrus kick. Carefully fold the dough edges over the cheese to create a “boat” shape that cradles the filling without it spilling out.

Step 3: Egg Wash, Sesame Seeds, and Herbs

Brush the dough edges generously with your remaining beaten egg, which will give your crust a gorgeous golden shine once baked. Then sprinkle a generous layer of sesame seeds over the edges for that signature nutty crunch and beautiful texture. Combine the chopped cilantro, parsley, dill, and fresh grated garlic in a small bowl and sprinkle this herb mixture over the herbaceous border of each dough boat. The herbs add a fresh pop that balances the rich cheese.

Step 4: Baking and Adding the Egg Yolks

Pop the baking sheets into the preheated oven and bake the boats for about 20 minutes, until the crust turns golden and the cheese inside starts to melt and bubble alluringly. Remove the trays and carefully crack an egg yolk into the center of each cheese boat. Return them to the oven for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, just long enough for the yolk to set slightly while still remaining wonderfully runny.

Step 5: Prepare and Add the Honey Butter Sauce

While the khachapuri are finishing in the oven, mix together the salted butter, honey, and smoked paprika in a small bowl. Once your bread boats come out, immediately drizzle this warm, sweet, and smoky butter sauce over each one. Stir the butter and the luscious egg yolk into the cheese filling, allowing it to finish cooking gently while adding a final layer of rich flavor that ties everything together perfectly.

How to Serve Sesame Khachapuri Recipe

Garnishes

To serve this Sesame Khachapuri Recipe at its best, you can add a touch of chili flakes or a swirl of red harissa sauce for a spicy contrast. Fresh extra herbs sprinkled on top just before serving will also brighten each bite. The combination of vibrant greens, golden crust, and shiny egg yolk is as much a feast for the eyes as it is the palate.

Side Dishes

This khachapuri shines on its own but pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh salads—think cucumber and tomato with a light vinaigrette—to balance the richness. A bowl of tangy yogurt or tzatziki also makes a lovely cooling accompaniment that enhances the dish’s herbaceous notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your khachapuri on wooden boards for that rustic touch or arrange mini versions as part of a brunch spread. You can even scoop the cheesy, runny center onto toasty crostini for a fun appetizer twist. The Sesame Khachapuri Recipe’s versatility invites you to make it your own and delight anyone lucky enough to dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers from your Sesame Khachapuri Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to two days, allowing you to enjoy the flavors again without losing the cheesy, herby goodness.

Freezing

You can freeze the dough portion before baking if you want to prepare ahead. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to a month. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then assemble and bake fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place your leftover khachapuri in a preheated oven at 350° F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and the crust regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and the cheese rubbery.

FAQs

What is khachapuri?

Khachapuri is a traditional Georgian dish consisting of bread filled with cheese. This Sesame Khachapuri Recipe puts a unique spin on the classic by incorporating sesame seeds, fresh herbs, and a honey butter finish for a truly special flavor.

Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! While this recipe calls for feta, gouda or spicy cheddar, and provolone, feel free to experiment with similar melting cheeses you love. Just aim for a good balance of sharp, creamy, and mild flavors.

Is the egg yolk safe to eat partially cooked?

Yes, the egg yolk in this recipe cooks gently in the oven and should be slightly set but still runny, which is perfect and safe if using fresh, properly stored eggs.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To veganize it, you’d need to substitute the cheese with plant-based alternatives, use a vegan egg replacer, and choose a dairy-free butter for the sauce. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but it’s possible to create a similar cheesy-styled bread boat.

What does the honey butter sauce add?

The honey butter sauce adds a wonderful sweet and smoky layer that contrasts beautifully with the savory cheeses and herbs, making every bite vibrant and balanced.

Final Thoughts

This Sesame Khachapuri Recipe is truly a joy to make and share. The combination of melty cheese, fresh herbs, and that perfect egg yolk center wrapped in a golden, sesame-studded crust is nothing short of magic. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how delightful this dish can be for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Share it with friends or keep it all to yourself—you deserve it!