Name: Gruyère-Stuffed Crusty Loaves
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: For the Dough:; 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C); 1 tsp sugar; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil; For the Filling:; 1 1/2 cups grated Gruyère cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor); 1 tsp garlic powder (optional); 1/2 tsp dried thyme or rosemary (optional); Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; For Topping:; 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter; Sea salt (optional, for sprinkling on top); Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Gruyère-Stuffed Crusty Loaves are the epitome of comfort food with a gourmet twist. The combination of rich, nutty Gruyère cheese encased in a crispy, golden-brown crust creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Each bite offers a warm, gooey cheese center that will delight cheese lovers, while the crusty exterior adds a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, side dish, or even a main, this recipe is bound to impress with its simplicity and bold flavor.

Gruyère-Stuffed Crusty Loaves

Ingredients

2 small round crusty loaves of bread (like sourdough or French bread)
2 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

(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 top off each loaf of bread to create a “lid,” making sure not to cut all the way through. Hollow out the inside of each loaf, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges.
In a bowl, mix the shredded Gruyère cheese with Dijon mustard, melted butter, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
Spoon the cheese mixture into the hollowed-out bread loaves, packing it in generously.
Place the filled bread loaves on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with aluminum foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once the loaves are finished baking, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

Cheese Options: Swap Gruyère for other melting cheeses like Swiss, fontina, or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
Herbs: Add chopped fresh rosemary, parsley, or chives for extra fragrance and flavor.
Meat: For a heartier version, add cooked beef to the cheese mixture before stuffing the loaves.
Spicy: Add a bit of hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, or finely chopped jalapeños to give the cheese filling a kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Gruyère-stuffed loaves in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: To reheat, wrap the loaves in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melty again.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any melty cheese of your choice. Try Swiss, fontina, or even a blend of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stuffed loaves a few hours ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze the Gruyère-stuffed loaves?

While it’s best to enjoy them fresh, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed loaves. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes.

4. How can I prevent the cheese from overflowing while baking?

Ensure that you pack the cheese mixture tightly into the hollowed bread to minimize spillage. Wrapping the bread loosely with foil during baking can also help contain the filling.

5. Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! You can use any round crusty bread such as ciabatta or baguette. Just make sure it has a firm crust to hold up to the cheese filling.

6. Can I make this recipe without Dijon mustard?

If you’re not a fan of mustard, you can omit it, or substitute it with a teaspoon of lemon juice or a bit of balsamic vinegar to add some tang.

7. Can I make individual servings instead of one large loaf?

Yes, you can use smaller rolls or individual bread bowls. Adjust the baking time accordingly, reducing it to about 12-15 minutes for smaller portions.

8. How do I know when the loaves are done?

The bread should be golden brown, and the cheese should be fully melted and bubbling. If you insert a knife into the center, it should come out clean, indicating the bread is cooked through.

9. Can I add vegetables to the cheese filling?

Yes, feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted peppers to the cheese filling for extra flavor and texture.

10. Can I make this recipe without garlic powder?

If you prefer a garlic-free version, simply omit the garlic powder. You could also use fresh garlic or garlic-infused olive oil for a more subtle garlic flavor.

Conclusion

Gruyère-Stuffed Crusty Loaves are a delicious and comforting dish that will wow your family and guests. With its warm, gooey cheese filling and crispy, golden-brown crust, this recipe is a surefire way to elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side with soup, a hearty snack, or a special appetizer, these stuffed loaves are sure to be a hit at the table. Simple to make yet indulgent, this recipe is perfect for any occasion!