Bread stuffed with cheese

Cheese-Stuffed Bread - A Warm and Savory Appetizer

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Who doesn’t love the aroma of fresh, warm bread stuffed with melted, delicious cheese? This cheese-stuffed bread recipe is perfect for a warm appetizer, ideal for gatherings with friends or a quiet evening at home. It’s easy to prepare, and the result is always a guaranteed success. Let’s embark on this culinary journey!

A Brief History of the Recipe

Cheese-stuffed bread has appeared in various forms in kitchens around the world. Whether it’s bread filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables, the concept of combining carbohydrates with rich fillings has gained popularity over time. This recipe blends tradition with modernity, offering a delicious way to enjoy simple yet quality ingredients.

Ingredients

- 1 round homemade bread (of suitable size)
- 250 g cheese (grated)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/2 onion (grated)
- 2 cloves garlic (crushed)
- 1 bunch fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- 1 smoked sausage (small, finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)

Ingredient Details

- The Bread: Choose a fresh, round homemade bread with a crispy crust and fluffy crumb. This will provide the perfect support for the filling.
- The Cheese: You can use any type of cheese, but make sure it melts well. Mature cheese will give a more intense flavor, while young cheese will be softer and creamier.
- The Sausage: Choose a quality smoked sausage that adds a smoky flavor. You can experiment with different types of sausages depending on your preferences.
- The Mayonnaise: This helps create a creamy filling, but you can opt for Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter version.
- The Onion and Garlic: These add a special flavor to the filling, but you can adjust the quantity based on how spicy you want the dish to be.

Preparation Technique

1. Preparing the Bread: Start by cutting a lid off the top of the bread. Use a sharp knife to avoid crumbling. Then, using a spoon or knife, carefully scoop out the inside, leaving a margin of about 2-3 cm.

2. Preparing the Filling: In a bowl, add the grated cheese, chopped sausage, grated onion, crushed garlic, mayonnaise, and chopped parsley. Mix well until you have a homogeneous composition. Season with salt and pepper, tasting to ensure the filling is well seasoned.

3. Filling the Bread: Using a spoon, fill the bread with the cheese and sausage mixture, ensuring the filling is well packed.

4. Baking: Place the stuffed bread in a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese turns golden and melts beautifully.

5. Serving: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, with a spoonful on toasted bread slices or with fresh bread on the side.

Practical Tips

- Preparation in Advance: You can prepare the filling a few hours before baking the bread. Keep the filling in the fridge and fill the bread 30 minutes before serving.
- Variations: You can add sautéed vegetables or olives for extra flavor. You can also replace the sausage with ham or tuna for a lighter version.
- Pairings: This appetizer pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or craft beer. Additionally, a green salad with a light dressing will complement the meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This cheese-stuffed bread recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cheese is rich in calcium and protein, while the smoked sausage provides protein and iron. Parsley adds a boost of vitamins and antioxidants, making this recipe a good choice for a healthy appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use another type of cheese?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or goat cheese, depending on your taste.

2. How can I make the recipe healthier?
Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and use whole grain bread for a higher fiber content.

3. Can the stuffed bread be frozen?
It is recommended not to freeze it, as the texture of the bread will change once thawed. It’s best to consume it fresh.

A Personal Note

This cheese-stuffed bread recipe has quickly become a favorite in my family, bringing us together during festive moments. I remember how every Sunday, my grandmother would prepare it to welcome us all to the lunch table. The enticing aromas and the warmth of the fresh bread gathered us, turning every meal into an unforgettable memory.

I hope this recipe becomes just as beloved by you and your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!