“Stuffed Beef Bread

Stuffed Beef Bread is a golden, cheesy loaf filled with seasoned ground beef—great for dinner, game day, or as a hearty snack. This recipe serves 6–8.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• ¼ cup beef broth or water
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

For the Bread

• 1 loaf French bread or Italian bread
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 egg, beaten (optional, for a glossy finish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the onion for 3–4 minutes until softened, then add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the paprika, Italian seasoning, cumin (if using), salt, pepper, tomato paste, and beef broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
5. Stir in the parsley, mozzarella, and cheddar until evenly combined.
6. Slice the loaf lengthwise without cutting all the way through, creating a pocket. Hollow out a little of the soft interior to make room for the filling.
7. Spoon the beef mixture into the bread, pressing it in gently.
8. Mix the melted butter with the garlic powder and dried parsley, then brush over the top of the loaf. Brush with beaten egg as well if you want a shinier crust.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the bread is crisp and golden and the cheese is melted.
10. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• A crisp green salad
• Tomato soup
• French fries or potato wedges
• Pickles or coleslaw

Tip: You can add sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or sliced jalapeños to the filling, or swap the mozzarella for provolone or pepper jack for a different flavor.