Why You’ll Love Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Bread Recipe
This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a show-stopping meal that looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to prepare. The crispy crust contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage and gooey melted cheese inside. The garlic herb butter adds richness and depth, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. It’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for feeding a small crowd without much fuss.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the filling:
5 spicy Italian sausages
1 lb pepper jack cheese, cut into cubes
1 French baguette
For the garlic herb butter:
1 stick unsalted butter, softened
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
2 teaspoons chili flakes
Directions
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Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 300°F. If baking, preheat your oven to 375°F.
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In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chili flakes until well combined.
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Using a serrated knife, slice the baguette lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Carefully hollow out some of the soft interior to create space for the filling, leaving about half an inch of bread along the edges.
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Generously spread the garlic herb butter inside the hollowed bread and lightly over the outer crust.
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Arrange the cubes of pepper jack cheese evenly inside the bread.
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Place the raw sausages on top of the cheese, fitting them snugly along the length of the loaf. Add a few extra cheese cubes on top if desired.
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Gently close the bread to secure the filling.
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Place the stuffed bread on the grill with the sausage side facing down. Grill for 20 to 25 minutes, turning occasionally to prevent burning.
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Flip and continue cooking for another 10 to 15 minutes until the bread is golden and crisp and the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
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Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into thick portions and serving hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 to 6 people
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 to 40 minutes
Total time: Approximately 45 to 55 minutes
Variations
You can easily customize this stuffed bread to suit your preferences. Swap pepper jack for mozzarella, provolone, or sharp cheddar for a milder flavor. Add sautéed onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra texture and taste. Use mild Italian sausage instead of spicy if you prefer less heat. You can also try different breads such as ciabatta or sourdough for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers tightly wrapped in foil or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F oven for about 10 to 15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melted again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may soften the crust and make the bread less crisp. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I bake this instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake it in a 375°F oven for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked and the bread is golden and crisp.
How do I know when the sausage is fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the sausage should reach 160°F. Using a meat thermometer ensures accurate results.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed bread a few hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to cook.
What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Mozzarella, cheddar, provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses all melt beautifully and taste great.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time since you only need to heat it through and melt the cheese.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Hollow the bread properly and spread the garlic butter generously inside to create a barrier that helps keep moisture from soaking into the crust.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Absolutely. Sautéed onions, peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach can add extra flavor and texture.
How thick should I slice the bread?
Slices about 2 inches thick provide a good balance of crust, sausage, and cheese in every serving.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It can be mildly to moderately spicy depending on the sausage and cheese you use. Choose mild sausage and omit chili flakes for a less spicy version.
Can I freeze the entire loaf before cooking?
Yes, you can assemble and freeze it tightly wrapped. Thaw completely before cooking for best results.
Conclusion
Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Bread is the ultimate comfort food that combines crispy bread, savory sausage, and perfectly melted cheese in one satisfying dish. Easy to customize and simple to prepare, it’s ideal for casual gatherings, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving something hearty and flavorful. Once you try it, this stuffed bread is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
