Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering recipe for Cheesy Sausage Stuffed Bread. Bursting with savory flavors and ooey-gooey cheese, this stuffed bread is perfect for satisfying your cravings and impressing your guests. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a snack, or a crowd-pleasing party dish, this cheesy sausage stuffed bread is sure to be a hit. Follow along as we guide you through the steps to create this irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread or Italian bread
- 1 pound of Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
- Slice the loaf of French or Italian bread in half lengthwise, creating two long halves.
- Use a spoon to gently hollow out the center of each bread half, creating a shallow trough. Be careful not to remove too much bread, as you want to leave a sturdy base for the stuffing.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Stuff the Bread
- Spoon the sausage and cheese mixture into the hollowed-out troughs of the bread halves, pressing down gently to pack the filling in evenly.
Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Bread
- Place the stuffed bread halves on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top of the stuffed bread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the stuffed bread from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Slice the stuffed bread into individual portions and serve warm.
- Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired, and enjoy the cheesy, sausage-filled goodness!
Tips for Success:
- Bread Selection: Choose a sturdy loaf of French or Italian bread with a crisp crust and a soft interior. Avoid bread that is too soft or airy, as it may not hold up well to the filling.
- Sausage Variation: Feel free to use your favorite variety of Italian sausage for this recipe. You can opt for sweet, mild, or spicy sausage, depending on your preference.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella and Parmesan cheese are classic choices for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese as well. Cheddar, provolone, or fontina cheese would all work well in this stuffed bread.
- Customization: Get creative and customize the filling to suit your taste preferences. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the stuffed bread in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Simply cover the stuffed bread tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap and follow the baking instructions as directed.
With its irresistible combination of savory sausage and gooey cheese, this Cheesy Sausage Stuffed Bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you serve it as an appetizer, a snack, or a main dish, this stuffed bread is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in this deliciously cheesy treat!
