Name: Stuffed Italian Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: For the Dough:; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C); 1 tsp sugar; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil; For the Filling:; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami; 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage (crumbled, optional); 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional); 1/4 cup bell peppers, finely chopped (optional); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); For Topping:; 2 tbsp melted butter; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed Italian Bread is the ultimate savory comfort food. Imagine soft, pillowy bread stuffed with a savory combination of cheeses, meats, and herbs, baked to golden perfection. Whether served as a side dish, appetizer, or the centerpiece of a meal, this stuffed bread is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The crispy crust and gooey, cheesy filling make every bite irresistible. It’s perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to gatherings with friends!

Stuffed Italian Bread

Ingredients

1 loaf Italian bread (unsliced)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled Italian sausage (or pepperoni or salami)
1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
1/4 cup chopped red onion
1/4 cup black olives, chopped
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Slice the Italian bread lengthwise, being careful not to cut all the way through. You want to create a “book” of bread, so the halves stay attached at the bottom.
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, cooked Italian sausage, bell pepper, onion, black olives, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Open up the bread and stuff it generously with the cheese and sausage mixture. Press the filling into the bread to make sure it’s packed tightly.
Brush the outside of the bread with melted butter and olive oil. This will help it get golden and crispy as it bakes.
Wrap the stuffed bread in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the bread is warm and the cheese is melted. For a crispier crust, you can uncover the bread for the last 5 minutes of baking.
Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Slice the stuffed bread into individual servings.
Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes for a hearty vegetarian option.
Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, ricotta, or fontina for a unique twist.
Herbs and Spices: Add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or fresh basil for added flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover stuffed bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to store it for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat the stuffed bread in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but the crust may not remain crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use other types of bread like baguettes or ciabatta. Just make sure they’re sturdy enough to hold the filling.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the stuffed bread ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I make this recipe without meat?

Yes, simply omit the sausage or any other meat and load up on more veggies and cheese. It will still be delicious and satisfying.

4. Can I freeze the stuffed bread?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Bake it straight from the freezer at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.

5. How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Make sure to press the filling into the bread so it’s tightly packed. Wrapping the bread in foil helps it stay moist without getting soggy, and the olive oil and butter on the outside create a crispy crust.

6. Can I use store-bought pizza dough instead of bread?

Yes, you can use pizza dough if you prefer a softer, chewier texture. Just roll it out and stuff it in the same way as the bread.

7. How can I make this bread spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes, spicy sausage, or hot peppers to the filling for a little kick.

8. What should I serve this stuffed bread with?

Stuffed Italian bread is great on its own, but you can also serve it with a fresh salad, marinara sauce for dipping, or a side of roasted vegetables.

9. Can I use pre-cooked sausage or other deli meats?

Yes, pre-cooked sausage, pepperoni can be used in place of the crumbled Italian sausage. Just chop it up into small pieces.

10. Can I make this bread on the grill?

Yes, you can grill the stuffed bread. Wrap it in foil and place it on the grill over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the cheese is melted and the crust is crispy.

Conclusion

Stuffed Italian Bread is a perfect combination of crunchy, cheesy, and savory flavors that will wow anyone who tries it. This recipe is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a casual meal at home, this stuffed bread will never disappoint. The gooey cheese, flavorful meats, and fresh herbs make it a must-try for all bread lovers!