Ground Beef Lasagna Stuffed Garlic Bread

Ingredients

• 1 large loaf of Italian bread
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
• 15 ounces ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.

3. Stir in marinara sauce, garlic powder, and oregano. Simmer for 10 minutes.

4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, and egg. Mix well.

5. Cut the Italian bread lengthwise, creating a top and bottom half.

6. Hollow out the inside of both halves of the bread, leaving about a 1-inch border. Reserve the bread you scoop out – you can use it for breadcrumbs later.

7. Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the bottom half of the bread.

8. Top with half of the ground beef mixture.

9. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese.

10. Repeat layers: remaining ricotta cheese mixture, remaining ground beef mixture, and remaining mozzarella cheese.

11. Place the top half of the bread over the filling.

12. In a small bowl, combine melted butter and minced garlic.

13. Brush the garlic butter evenly over the top of the loaf.

14. Wrap the stuffed bread in aluminum foil.

15. Bake for 20 minutes.

16. Uncover the bread and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is golden brown.

17. Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

The Allure of Lasagna Stuffed Garlic Bread

This recipe offers a delicious and convenient twist on classic lasagna. Imagine all the comforting flavors of lasagna packed into a garlic bread loaf. It’s a perfect dish for a party or a family dinner.

The combination of savory ground beef, rich cheeses, and flavorful marinara sauce is irresistible. The garlic butter adds an extra layer of deliciousness.

### Why This Recipe Works

This recipe simplifies the lasagna process without sacrificing flavor. Using Italian bread as the base eliminates the need for layering noodles. The result is a satisfying and easy-to-make meal.

### Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to your liking. You can substitute ground turkey or sausage for the ground beef. Add vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to the meat sauce.

Different cheeses can also be used. Try using provolone, asiago, or a blend of Italian cheeses. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, use a vegetable-based filling instead of meat.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Achieving the perfect Ground Beef Lasagna Stuffed Garlic Bread requires a few key techniques. Ensuring the filling is well-seasoned and the bread is properly baked will elevate your dish.

### Preparing the Ingredients

Proper preparation is crucial for a successful outcome. Brown the ground beef thoroughly and drain off excess grease. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.

Mix the ricotta cheese mixture well to ensure it is evenly distributed. Shred the mozzarella cheese yourself for better melting.

### Baking Techniques

Wrapping the bread in foil during the initial baking period helps to keep the bread moist. Removing the foil allows the cheese to melt and the bread to become golden brown.

Monitor the baking time carefully to prevent the bread from burning. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Ground Beef Lasagna Stuffed Garlic Bread is a meal in itself. However, it pairs well with a variety of side dishes.

### Complementary Sides

A simple green salad is a great accompaniment to this dish. The freshness of the salad provides a nice contrast to the richness of the bread. A side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus, also works well.

### Beverage Pairings

A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, complements the flavors of the lasagna. For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

### Presentation Matters

Slice the bread into individual portions for easy serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color. Arrange the slices on a platter for an appealing presentation.

Making it Ahead and Storing Leftovers

This recipe can be prepared in advance, making it perfect for entertaining. Proper storage ensures that leftovers remain delicious.

### Preparing Ahead of Time

You can assemble the entire loaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and bake according to the recipe instructions. Add a few minutes to the baking time if the loaf is cold.

### Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Ground Beef Lasagna Stuffed Garlic Bread in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

### Freezing Instructions

To freeze, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

The Nutritional Benefits

While indulgent, this recipe offers some nutritional value. The ground beef provides protein, and the cheese is a good source of calcium.

### Protein Power

Ground beef is a rich source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Including protein in your diet helps you feel full and satisfied.

### Calcium Content

Cheese is a good source of calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. Calcium also plays a role in muscle function and nerve transmission.

### Moderation is Key

This recipe is high in calories and fat, so it’s best to enjoy it in moderation. Choose lean ground beef to reduce the fat content. Serve with a healthy side dish to balance the meal.

FAQ

Can I use frozen ground beef?

Yes, just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Drain any excess liquid after browning.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Provolone, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses would work well.

How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?

Make sure to drain the ground beef well after browning. Also, don’t overfill the bread.

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, adding chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the ground beef mixture would be delicious.

How do I reheat leftovers?

You can reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave.