Ingredients You Need
To prepare this mouthwatering stuffed bread, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 large French baguette or Italian loaf
- 400g (about 1 lb) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1½ cups shredded cheese
- (cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for deeper flavor)
You can customize it as you like by adding peppers, mushrooms, different cheeses, or spices.
How to Make Loaded Cheesy Beef & Bacon Stuffed Bread
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it apart as it cooks to avoid large chunks. Add the chopped onion and garlic and cook for another 3–4 minutes until fragrant and lightly softened.
Season the mixture with paprika, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce if you’re using it. Add the chopped cooked bacon and mix everything well.
Remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly before assembling the bread.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread
Place the baguette or loaf on a sturdy cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the bread lengthwise without cutting all the way through—almost like creating a tunnel. Then cut crosswise slits along the top, forming diamond-shaped sections. This allows the stuffing and cheese to melt deep inside the bread.
Gently open the cuts with your fingers to create space for the filling.
Step 3: Stuff the Bread Generously
Spoon the beef and bacon mixture into the bread, pressing it down gently so it fills every slit and cavity. Make sure each section is stuffed well to achieve the layered, hearty look seen in the photo.
Then add generous amounts of shredded cheese all over the top, letting it fall into the cuts and pockets. This guarantees the cheesy, melty topping that makes this dish so irresistible.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Melty
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Brush the top of the bread with melted butter for a glossy finish and added flavor. Place the stuffed loaf onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until:
- The cheese is fully melted
- The bread edges turn golden
- The filling is hot and bubbly
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top right before serving.
How to Serve This Stuffed Bread
This Loaded Cheesy Beef & Bacon Stuffed Bread is incredibly versatile and can be served:
- As a main dish with salad or fries
- As a game-day appetizer
- As a party platter centerpiece
- As a snack or movie-night food
- Alongside dips like mustard, spicy mayo, garlic sauce, or cheese sauce
Simply slice, pull apart, and enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite.
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Bread
Choose the Right Bread
A thick, sturdy loaf such as French bread or Italian bread works best. Avoid bread that’s too soft or airy.
Don’t Skip the Slits
The cross-cutting technique allows ingredients to seep deep inside the loaf for maximum flavor.
Use Melty Cheese
Mozzarella and cheddar are ideal, but any cheese that melts well will work.
Let the Filling Cool Slightly
Hot filling can make the bread soggy if added immediately.
Add Extra Flavor
Try adding jalapeños, caramelized onions, or smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
Variations You Can Try
Spicy Beef Stuffed Bread
Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or spicy sausage.
Philly Cheesesteak Style
Use thinly sliced beef, onions, peppers, and provolone cheese.
BBQ Bacon Version
Mix the meat with BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky twist.
Breakfast Stuffed Bread
Try scrambled eggs, beef or sausage, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored:
- Refrigerated: up to 3 days
- Reheated in oven: 160°C (320°F) for 10–12 minutes
- Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread chewy
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s incredibly easy to prepare
- Looks impressive and perfect for sharing
- Packed with bold, comforting flavors
- Cheesy, meaty, and satisfying
- Customizable for any occasion
This Loaded Cheesy Beef & Bacon Stuffed Bread is guaranteed to become one of your go-to recipes whenever you need something delicious, filling, and crowd-pleasing.