Italian Sausage Loaf
A savory Italian sausage loaf with melted mozzarella and seasoned bread, perfect for sharing at family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll the dough out on a floured board into an 18 x 6-inch rectangle.
- Spread the browned and drained Italian sausage, shredded mozzarella cheese, egg mixture, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, minced onion, and minced pepper over the dough.
- Roll up the dough jelly roll style.
- Transfer the rolled dough to a greased cookie sheet and form into a ring, pinching all edges closed.
- Mix the egg with 1 teaspoon of milk and brush it over the filled bread ring.
- Make slashes on top of the ring with a sharp knife, 1 1/2 inches apart.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and let rise for 30 minutes.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and eaten cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using sweet Italian sausage and adding some sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms. If you prefer a lighter version, swap half of the Italian sausage with cooked ground turkey. You can also use whole wheat dough for a healthier twist. Make sure to roll the dough tightly to prevent it from unraveling during baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Italian Sausage Loaf with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a marinara dipping sauce or garlic butter for added flavor. For a more substantial dinner, enjoy it alongside Italian recipes like No Noodles Lasagne or a classic Caesar salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 30-45 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Italian Sausage Loaf contains roughly 110 calories, with 3g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% 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 freeze the Italian Sausage Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the loaf before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and follow the baking instructions.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you don't have mozzarella cheese, you can substitute it with provolone, cheddar, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Each will give a different flavor profile, so choose according to your preference.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider using hot Italian sausage instead of mild. You can also incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños into the filling for an extra kick. Adjust the amount to your taste!
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).