Sausage Stuffed French Loaf
Sausage-stuffed French bread features savory sausage, melted cheese, and aromatic herbs, baked to perfection—ideal for quick gatherings, casual dinners, or indulgent snack platters.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Hollow out the French loaf to about 1/2-inch thickness, saving the crumbs.
- Cook the sausage, ground beef, and chopped onion until browned; drain excess fat.
- In a bowl, combine cooked meats and onion with bread crumbs, shredded mozzarella cheese, Dijon mustard, fennel seed, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the meat mixture into the hollowed loaf, then replace the cut-off ends and secure with toothpicks.
- Melt butter in a small saucepan and add minced garlic; cook for 1 minute.
- Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top and sides of the stuffed loaf.
- Wrap the loaf in foil, leaving it slightly open for steam escape.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using Italian sausage instead of plain pork sausage. You can also substitute the ground chuck with ground turkey for a lighter version. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using meat substitutes like crumbled tofu or tempeh. Don't skip the garlic butter; it adds a delicious finish to the loaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed French loaf with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Lorraine'S Calico Beans for a hearty dinner. For a fun twist, consider slicing the loaf into individual portions for a party platter, perfect for game day gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the loaf in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through. For best results, avoid microwave reheating, as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Stuffed French Loaf contains roughly 1129 calories, with 38g protein, 176g carbohydrates, and 40g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (149% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (147% of the Daily Value), and calcium (124% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1260mg per serving (55% 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 prepare the stuffed loaf in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed loaf up to a day ahead. Assemble it fully, then wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven without needing to unassemble it. This saves time on busy days.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella, feel free to substitute with provolone or cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile. You can also use a blend of cheeses for added complexity. Just be sure to choose a cheese that melts well to achieve the desired gooey texture.
How do I know when the stuffed loaf is done?
The stuffed loaf is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, usually around 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). You can also insert a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
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).