Pork Pizza Loaf
A hearty and flavorful pork pizza loaf combines seasoned ground pork, melted mozzarella, and savory toppings inside French bread, perfect for a satisfying family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground pork in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add Parmesan cheese, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic salt, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese to the cooked pork; mix well.
- Remove the inside of the halved French bread loaves, leaving a 1/2-inch shell.
- Spread the bread halves with pizza sauce, reserving 1/4 to 1/2 cup for later.
- Place the seasoned meat mixture on the bread and spread with the reserved sauce.
- Layer sliced onion, mushroom pieces, and ground pepper on top of the meat.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
- Place the assembled loaves on a cookie sheet and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the pork mixture. If you want a bit of heat, diced jalapeños can be a great addition. Instead of ground pork, you could also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Adjust the cheese types based on your preference; a blend of mozzarella and cheddar could work well too.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pork Pizza Loaf with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Pair it with a light marinara sauce for dipping. This dish also complements a refreshing coleslaw or a side of Cheesy New Potatoes for a hearty dinner. It’s perfect for game day or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the pizza loaves tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through, for a crispy crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pork Pizza Loaf contains roughly 624 calories, with 32g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value) and calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2733mg per serving (119% 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 Pork Pizza Loaf?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked loaves. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
What can I substitute for the pizza sauce?
If you don't have pizza sauce, you can use marinara sauce or even make your own by simmering crushed tomatoes with garlic, basil, and oregano. This will give you a deliciously fresh flavor that complements the pork well.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the pork mixture for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure to sauté them briefly before mixing them in so they soften up nicely.
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).