Sausage Stuffed French Bread
Sausage stuffed French bread offers a savory, cheesy filling with seasoned sausage, vegetables, and melted cheese, perfect for hearty gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sausage until no pink remains.
- Add chopped onion and celery; cook until tender and sausage is browned.
- Slice the French bread lengthwise and remove insides to form a shell.
- Combine the pulled bread, seasonings, and cooked sausage mixture.
- Add eggs and milk; toss with the stuffing to mix well.
- Mound the stuffing onto the bread halves and brush with melted butter.
- Place on a cookie sheet and bake in a 400°F oven for 20 minutes.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle grated cheese on top; return to oven for 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Remove from oven and place the halves together.
- Slice and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian sausage or a blend of meats. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute turkey sausage. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can enhance the stuffing's taste. If you prefer a crunchier topping, mix breadcrumbs with the cheese before sprinkling it on. This dish pairs beautifully with Aunt Helen'S No Bake Cheese Cake for dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sausage stuffed French bread with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a light dipping sauce or marinara on the side. For a delightful finishing touch, consider serving with Chilled Blueberry Pie for dessert, balancing the savory flavors with something sweet.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed bread halves in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Stuffed French Bread contains roughly 887 calories, with 18g protein, 127g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (201% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 779mg per serving (34% 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 dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffing mixture and fill the bread up to a day in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply brush the bread with melted butter and follow the baking instructions. This makes it perfect for meal prep or gatherings.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar is a popular choice for its robust flavor, but you can also use mozzarella for a milder taste or a blend of cheeses for added complexity. Experimenting with different cheeses can give you a unique twist on the dish, so feel free to get creative!
Can I freeze the stuffed bread?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed French bread before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then follow the baking instructions. This is a great way to have a quick meal on hand.
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).