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Cheesy Beef Stuffed Bread
Cheesy beef stuffed bread is a delicious and hearty dish that combines crusty bread with a savory beef filling, all topped with melted cheese. This meal is perfect for a casual dinner or a party appetizer. The image above showcases stuffed bread with a generous portion of beef and cheese, garnished with fresh herbs. Here’s how you can make this delightful dish at home.
Ingredients
- 1 large baguette or loaf of French bread
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparing the Bread:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Hollow Out the Bread: Cut the baguette or French bread in half lengthwise. Using your hands or a spoon, remove some of the bread from the center to create a hollow space for the filling. Place the hollowed-out bread halves on the prepared baking sheet.
Making the Beef Filling:
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Onion and Garlic: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
- Add Sauce and Seasoning: Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the flavors meld together.
Assembling the Stuffed Bread:
- Fill the Bread: Spoon the beef mixture evenly into the hollowed-out bread halves.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top of the beef filling.
- Bake the Bread: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is crispy.
Serving:
- Garnish and Slice: Once the cheesy beef stuffed bread is done, remove it from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve: Slice the stuffed bread into individual portions and serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Beef Stuffed Bread
- Bread Choice: Use a sturdy, crusty bread that can hold the filling without becoming too soggy.
- Customize Fillings: Add your favorite vegetables or extra seasonings to the beef mixture for additional flavor.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, Parmesan, or pepper jack for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy beef stuffed bread pairs wonderfully with:
- Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of marinara or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Appetizer Spread: Include it as part of an appetizer spread with other finger foods and snacks.
Conclusion
Cheesy beef stuffed bread is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of savory beef, gooey cheese, and crusty bread creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it as an appetizer at a party, this dish is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delicious blend of flavors in every bite!