Description
Cheesy Bacon Beef Stuffed Bread
Ingredients
1 large loaf of French bread (or Italian bread)
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons ketchup
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for topping)
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions
Prepare the Bread: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the top off the bread and hollow out the center, leaving about 1/2-inch of bread on all sides.
Cook the Beef Mixture: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef, onion, and bell pepper over medium heat until the beef is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Add Flavor: Stir in barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes.
Stuff the Bread: Fill the hollowed-out bread with the beef mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Bake: Brush the outside of the bread with the beaten egg and sprinkle sesame seeds on top. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Slice into thick portions and enjoy warm!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~400 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Carefully slice the top off the loaf of French bread. Using your hands or a serrated knife, hollow out the center, leaving a sturdy 1/2-inch shell. Crumble the removed bread for breadcrumbs in another recipe. Next, in a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onion and bell pepper until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables are softened. Drain the excess fat thoroughly. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the barbecue sauce, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld. Spoon this hot mixture into the hollowed bread shell. Layer the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon on top. Place the stuffed loaf on a baking sheet. Brush the entire exterior with the beaten egg wash and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Bake for 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and the bread is golden and crisp.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty stuffed bread is a meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with lighter sides. Serve thick slices alongside a crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a classic comfort food combo, offer a bowl of tomato soup for dipping. On game day, cut it into smaller, bite-sized pieces for an easy, shareable appetizer.
How-to Summary
Hollow out a bread loaf, cook and season a beef, onion, and pepper mixture with barbecue sauce and spices, then mix in bacon. Stuff the mixture into the bread, top with cheese, brush with egg wash, and bake until golden and melted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this stuffed bread ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the stuffed loaf (without the egg wash) up to a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Before baking, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes, apply the egg wash, and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based ground meat alternative work well. Adjust cooking times and seasoning as needed.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer at 350°F until warm and crispy to restore texture.
My bread got soggy. How can I prevent this? Ensure you drain the beef mixture very well after cooking. Letting it simmer helps evaporate excess liquid. A sturdy, crusty bread is also key.
Can I freeze the stuffed bread? It’s best enjoyed fresh. Freezing can make the bread texture soggy upon reheating. For best results, freeze the cooked beef filling alone and assemble with fresh bread when ready.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not draining the cooked beef thoroughly, leading to a soggy bread shell.
- Overfilling the bread, causing the filling to spill out during baking.
- Using bread that is too soft; a crusty, sturdy loaf is essential for structure.
- Skipping the egg wash, which gives the exterior a beautiful, professional golden finish.
- Overbaking, which can dry out the filling. Bake just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon Beef Stuffed Bread is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, combining savory flavors and satisfying textures in one impressive dish. It’s surprisingly simple to make yet delivers maximum impact, perfect for busy weeknights, game day gatherings, or casual family dinners. By following the detailed guide and tips provided, you can easily master this recipe and avoid common pitfalls. Give it a try for a delicious, hands-on meal that everyone will love.