Stuffed Italian bread is a delicious dish typically made by hollowing out a loaf of Italian bread and filling it with various savory ingredients before baking until golden and crispy. Here’s a basic recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 large loaf of Italian bread
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/4 cup diced onions
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Slice the top off the loaf of Italian bread and set it aside. Carefully hollow out the inside of the loaf, leaving about 1/2 inch of bread on the sides and bottom.
- In a mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, black olives, bell peppers, onions, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into the hollowed-out bread loaf, pressing down gently to pack it in.
- Replace the top of the bread loaf and brush the melted butter over the top.
- Wrap the loaf in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious stuffed Italian bread!
Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite ingredients such as cooked sausage, mushrooms, or different types of cheese. Enjoy!