French Beef Slice
A hearty French-inspired baked beef dish featuring seasoned ground beef, melted Cheddar cheese, and flavorful vegetables served inside a crusty loaf of French bread, perfect for groups.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F.
- Brown ground beef, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper in a large skillet.
- Add Cheddar soup and tomato soup to the skillet and heat thoroughly.
- Cut the top off the French bread loaf and remove the inside, tearing it into small pieces.
- Add the torn bread pieces to the meat mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour the hot meat and bread mixture into the hollowed-out loaf.
- Cover the filled loaf with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 10 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Cut into one-inch slices and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic with the onions and bell peppers. You can substitute the Cheddar soup with a homemade cheese sauce for a fresher taste. If ground beef isn't available, ground turkey or chicken can work, though they may alter the dish's richness. Using whole grain French bread can enhance the dish's texture and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This French Beef Slice pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it with a dollop of sour cream or salsa for an extra kick. For a hearty option, complement it with a side of classic Meatballs In Spicy Sauce. Guests will enjoy its melty cheese and savory filling.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture, heating in short increments until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Beef Slice contains roughly 454 calories, with 11g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 466mg per serving (20% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat mixture and fill the bread loaf a few hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. It may need a few extra minutes in the oven if baked cold.
What can I serve with French Beef Slice?
This dish goes well with a light salad or steamed vegetables. For something heartier, try pairing it with baked potatoes or a bowl of Dean'S Elephant Soup for a comforting meal.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).