Stuffed French Bread is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or a crowd-pleasing appetizer. This recipe takes a crusty loaf of French bread and fills it with a rich mixture of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and a medley of vegetables, creating a savory filling that’s baked until warm and bubbly. The golden bread crust contrasts beautifully with the creamy, cheesy interior, making each bite a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad or a bowl of soup.
Ingredients:
- 1 large loaf of French bread
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Bread: Slice the French bread in half lengthwise. Scoop out the soft interior of the bread, leaving about a ½-inch shell. Set the bread shells aside and reserve the scooped-out bread for another use or discard.
- Cook the Filling:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles. Cook until no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
- Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the mayonnaise, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and half of each cheese. Mix until well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stuff the Bread: Spoon the beef and cheese mixture evenly into the hollowed-out bread halves. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the stuffed bread halves on a baking sheet. Brush the exposed edges of the bread with melted butter for added flavor and crispness. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Allow the bread to cool for a few minutes before slicing into 2-inch pieces. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Stuffed French Bread as a main dish or as an indulgent party snack!
