Name: Stuffed Oven Baguettes with Italian Sausage and Melted Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 large baguettes, preferably day-old; 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded; 4 ounces provolone cheese, shredded; 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 pound ground Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!); 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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Introduction

Stuffed oven baguettes are a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or casual gathering. Filled with savory Italian sausage, vegetables, and a blend of melted cheeses, this dish combines comfort and convenience in every bite.

Two slices of crusty bread form the base, toasted to a golden brown with a rough texture. Each slice has a thick layer of melted creamy cheese on top, bubbling and slightly browned in spots, dripping down the side of the bread in the front slice. Scattered over the cheese are small cubes of pink ham and bits of red pepper, adding color and texture. The dish is finished with a sprinkling of finely chopped green herbs and cracked black pepper on top. The bread slices are arranged on a white rectangular plate set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large baguettes, preferably day-old
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 pound ground Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!)
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
4 ounces provolone cheese, shredded
2 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice off the top of each baguette lengthwise, leaving a hinge on one side. Carefully scoop out the soft bread from inside, leaving about a 1/2-inch shell. Place the hollowed baguettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the red and green bell peppers and cook until they begin to soften, roughly 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess grease from the pan.
Step 5: Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Let the mixture simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the flavors meld together.
Step 7: Remove the skillet from heat. Spoon the sausage mixture evenly into the hollowed baguettes.
Step 8: In a large bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, provolone, and grated Parmesan cheeses. Mix well to distribute evenly.
Step 9: Sprinkle the cheese mixture generously over the stuffed baguettes.
Step 10: Place the stuffed baguettes on the baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the bread is heated through with a slightly crispy crust.
Step 11: Remove from the oven and let cool a few minutes. Slice each baguette into 1 to 2 inch pieces, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old baguettes to prevent sogginess and ensure a crisp crust after baking.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with diced mushrooms or plant-based meat alternatives.
Try adding chopped spinach or mushrooms to the sausage mixture for extra veggies.
Replace provolone with cheddar or Monterey Jack for a different cheese flavor.
If you prefer a spicier filling, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Storage

Store leftover stuffed baguettes in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

The image shows four small bread bowls with a golden brown crust, each filled with a creamy, melted cheese layer that slightly spills over the edges. On top of the cheese, there are small pieces of crispy bacon with reddish-brown color, and scattered bits of green herbs adding a fresh touch. Some of the bowls also have tiny chunks of yellow and red peppers or vegetables mixed in, creating a colorful look. The bread has a textured crust with a rustic, homemade feel, all placed on brown paper over a wooden surface with a blurred white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sausage filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready, stuff the baguettes and bake as instructed.

What if I don’t have Italian sausage?

You can substitute with ground pork, beef, or turkey seasoned with Italian herbs and spices to mimic the sausage flavor.