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Cheesy Stuffed Italian Bread Boat

A delightful combination of cheeses and savory meats stuffed into a hollowed Italian bread, perfect for gatherings and celebrations.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 1 large loaf Italian bread loaf
  • 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup cooked ground beef or sausage Can substitute with roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
  • 0.5 cup marinara sauce Serve additional for dipping.
Additional flavorings
  • 2 tablespoons butter (melted)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
  2. Gently slice the Italian bread lengthwise and hollow out the center to create a 'boat'.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, ground meat, and marinara sauce.
  4. Fill the hollowed-out bread with the cheese and meat mixture.
Cooking
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning.
  2. Brush the mixture on the edges of the bread.
  3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bread is golden and the cheese is bubbly.
  4. Slice and serve warm.

Notes

For added flavor, consider including sautéed bell peppers or onions. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil before serving can elevate the dish.