Sausage and Mozzarella Stuffed Garlic Bread

• 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread
• 8 ounces Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 Slice the French bread loaf lengthwise, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
3. 3 In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
4. 4 In a small bowl, mix softened butter, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. 5 Spread the butter mixture evenly over both halves of the bread.
6. 6 Layer the cooked sausage and mozzarella cheese between the two halves.
7. 7 Press the bread halves together and wrap tightly in aluminum foil.
8. 8 Place the wrapped loaf on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.
9. 9 Remove from oven, unwrap, and let stand for 5 minutes before slicing.

Equipment

• Skillet
• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil

Variations

• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.
• Experiment with different cheeses like provolone or cheddar.

Substitutions

• Substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn't available.

Pairings

• Great with a hearty pasta dish.
• Perfect alongside a bowl of soup or chili.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra cheesiness, add a handful of Parmesan on top before baking.
• Use turkey sausage for a leaner option.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.

FAQ