Indulge in a culinary delight that combines two beloved classics: spaghetti and garlic bread. Who could resist the allure of garlic bread alongside their spaghetti? This easy Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread ensures you get a taste of that crispy, savory, garlic goodness with every bite. Top of Form
Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser. Join us as we explore each ingredient and the step-by-step preparation method to create this mouthwatering fusion of flavors.
Ingredients:
- Italian Bread Loaf (16 ounce):
- The Italian bread loaf serves as the base for this delicious dish, providing a sturdy vessel for the spaghetti filling. Its crusty exterior and soft interior offer the perfect texture to complement the savory flavors of the garlic bread and spaghetti.
- Butter & Garlic Powder (for bread):
- Butter and garlic powder are used to infuse the bread with rich, savory flavor and create a crispy exterior. The butter adds richness and moisture, while the garlic powder provides aromatic garlic flavor without the need for fresh garlic.
- Ground Beef (1 pound) and Ground Sausage (1 pound):
- A combination of ground beef and ground sausage forms the hearty and flavorful base of the spaghetti filling. The beef adds meaty flavor and texture, while the sausage brings a hint of spiciness and depth.
- Tomato Sauce (16 ounce) and Tomato Paste (6 ounce):
- Tomato sauce and tomato paste create a rich and robust base for the spaghetti filling, providing depth of flavor and a hint of sweetness. The tomato sauce adds moisture and acidity, while the tomato paste adds concentrated tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
- Onion (1 medium, diced):
- Diced onion adds aromatic flavor and sweetness to the spaghetti filling, complementing the savory meat and tomato sauce. Sauteeing the onion before adding it to the filling helps release its natural sugars and soften its texture, ensuring it blends seamlessly with the other ingredients.
- Uncooked Spaghetti (7 ounce):
- Uncooked spaghetti serves as the pasta component of the filling, providing a classic and comforting addition to the dish. Choose high-quality spaghetti and cook it until al dente according to package instructions before adding it to the filling.
- Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, divided in half) and Mozzarella Cheese (⅔ cup, divided in half):
- A combination of Parmesan and Mozzarella cheese adds creamy richness and gooey meltiness to the spaghetti filling. The Parmesan cheese contributes nutty flavor and a hint of saltiness, while the Mozzarella cheese adds stretchy, cheesy goodness. Dividing the cheese ensures it’s evenly distributed throughout the filling, creating a satisfyingly cheesy experience with every bite.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tablespoon, generous), Salt (1 teaspoon + a pinch), Minced Garlic (½ teaspoon), and Ground Black Pepper (½ teaspoon):
- Italian seasoning, salt, minced garlic, and ground black pepper provide aromatic flavor and balanced seasoning to the spaghetti filling. The Italian seasoning blend adds herbal notes and complexity, while the salt enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. The minced garlic adds pungent garlic flavor, and the ground black pepper adds a hint of warmth and spice. Adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring the filling is well-seasoned and flavorful.
Preparation Method:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking sheet with a layer of parchment paper.
- Using a sharp knife, carefully slice the Italian bread loaf in half lengthwise to create two long halves.
- In a small bowl, mix softened butter with garlic powder to create a garlic butter spread.
- Evenly distribute the garlic butter mixture across the exposed surfaces of the bread halves. Position the bread halves, cut side up, on the parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
- Prepare the Spaghetti Filling:
- In a sizable skillet, warm olive oil over medium heat. Introduce diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté until they become softened and release a fragrant aroma.
- Combine the ground beef and ground sausage in the skillet, breaking them apart with a spoon as they cook. Continue cooking until they are browned and fully cooked, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Blend in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, and ground black pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and intensify.
- Meanwhile, cook the uncooked spaghetti in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the meat sauce. Stir to combine.
- Assemble the Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread:
- Sprinkle half of the Parmesan cheese and half of the Mozzarella cheese over one of the garlic buttered bread halves.
- Spread the spaghetti and meat sauce mixture evenly over the cheese-covered bread half.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese and Mozzarella cheese over the spaghetti layer.
- Place the other garlic buttered bread half on top of the spaghetti layer, creating a sandwich-like structure.
- Bake the Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread:
- Place the assembled garlic bread sandwich on the prepared baking sheet. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
- Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly melted and bubbling.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Remove the Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Carefully slice the stuffed bread into individual portions using a sharp knife.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil, if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy the delicious combination of crispy garlic bread and savory spaghetti filling with each flavorful bite!
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread offers a delightful fusion of two classic comfort foods: spaghetti and garlic bread. With its crispy exterior, gooey cheese, and flavorful spaghetti filling, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and delight your taste buds. Whether enjoyed as a comforting family meal or served at a casual gathering, Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.