Stuffed French Bread Loaf

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Stuffed French Bread Loaf: A Delicious and Easy Crowd-Pleaser

When it comes to hearty meals that are easy to make and guaranteed to impress, nothing beats a stuffed French bread loaf. This dish combines the crisp, golden crust of a French baguette with a delicious, gooey filling inside, making it perfect for family dinners, game nights, or potlucks. Let’s dive into how to make this mouthwatering dish step-by-step.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

  • 1 large French baguette (preferably day-old for firmness)
  • 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped
  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese or sour cream
  • 1/2 cup marinara or tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or oregano)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Slice the top of the baguette horizontally and carefully hollow out the interior, leaving about 1 inch of bread on all sides to create a shell. Set the bread pieces aside (they can be used later in the stuffing).

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or sausage until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and sauté until the onions become translucent and the vegetables soften.
  3. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for a burst of flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Mixture

  1. Lower the heat, then stir in the marinara sauce and cream cheese (or sour cream). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy.
  2. Fold in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt evenly into the mixture.
  3. Optionally, chop the leftover bread bits and mix them into the filling to add texture.

Step 4: Stuff the Bread

  1. Spoon the prepared mixture into the hollowed-out French bread shell.
  2. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top to create a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

  1. Place the stuffed loaf on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cover the bread loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.
  2. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 5-10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

  1. Remove the stuffed loaf from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley for added freshness and color.
  2. Slice the bread into thick pieces and serve warm.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair it with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
  • Serve alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a cozy dinner.
  • For extra flair, drizzle balsamic glaze or garlic butter over the slices before serving.

Tips and Variations:

  • Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes instead of meat for a veggie-friendly filling.
  • Add a Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
  • Switch the Cheese: Swap mozzarella for provolone or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator wrapped in foil, and reheat in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 300°F.

This Stuffed French Bread Loaf is an easy, versatile dish that will quickly become a household favorite. Whether you enjoy it for dinner, as a party appetizer, or a quick snack, it delivers big on both flavor and comfort. Enjoy every bite!

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