Name: Stuffed Italian Bread Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet); 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/45°C); 1 tsp sugar; 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup sliced pepperoni or salami; 1/2 cup cooked Italian sausage (crumbled, optional); 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional); 1/4 cup bell peppers, finely chopped (optional); 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp melted butter; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

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If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping crowd pleaser that’s as irresistible as it is customizable, look no further than Stuffed Italian Bread. This delightful loaf has a crisp, golden crust and a gooey, savory interior brimming with Italian cheeses, meats, and bold seasonings. It’s one of those dishes that disappears almost as soon as you slice into it, and every bite bursts with old-world flavor. Make it as an appetizer, a side, or let it steal the spotlight at your table—no matter when you bring it out, Stuffed Italian Bread is always a hit.

Stuffed Italian Bread Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Stuffed Italian Bread is that it brings together familiar ingredients in a way that feels both special and homey. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s adding stretch, tang, fragrance, or texture to the final loaf. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some tried-and-true tips:

Active dry yeast: Gives the bread its light, airy texture and helps it rise beautifully. Make sure it’s fresh for best results!
Warm water: Activates the yeast—just warm to the touch, not hot, to avoid killing it.
Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness that deepens the bread’s flavor.
All-purpose flour: The sturdy backbone that gives the loaf its chewy structure.
Salt: Brings out all the flavors in both the dough and the filling.
Olive oil: Adds moisture and classic Mediterranean flair to the dough.
Mozzarella cheese: The stretchy, melty heart of the stuffing—essential for that gooey pull!
Parmesan cheese: Lends a salty, nutty bite that balances all the other flavors.
Pepperoni or salami: Savory Italian slices that bring bold, meaty character.
Cooked Italian sausage (optional): Layers on richness and a little bit of spice, perfect for those who love extra heartiness.
Sliced black olives (optional): Give a briny pop and pretty contrast—totally up to your tastes.
Bell peppers, finely chopped (optional): Add sweetness and color, making each slice more vibrant.
Garlic powder: Infuses the filling and topping with that unmistakable aroma of Italian comfort food.
Dried Italian seasoning: A classic blend that ties the whole loaf together.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For just a hint of heat—add more or less as you like.
Melted butter: Brushed over the top to create a golden, flavorful finish.
Dried oregano: Sprinkled on top, it adds fragrant, earthy notes.
Fresh parsley (optional): Gives a burst of color and freshness as a final flourish.

How to Make

Step 1: Get the Dough Going

Start by activating the yeast. Mix the warm water, a teaspoon of sugar, and active dry yeast together in a small bowl. Let this sit until it gets nice and frothy, about 5–10 minutes. This is one of the most satisfying little kitchen moments—watching yeast come alive and knowing you’re about to bake something incredible.

Step 2: Mix and Knead

In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in your olive oil and the bubbly yeast mixture, stirring everything until a shaggy mass forms. Turn the whole thing out onto a floured counter and knead until smooth and elastic—about 5–7 minutes. Kneading helps create a springy texture that really makes Stuffed Italian Bread special.

Step 3: Let It Rise

Transfer that beautiful dough ball to a greased bowl, cover it, and let it nap in a warm spot for an hour, or until it has doubled in size. This is a great moment to prep your filling and maybe cue up a little Italian music to set the mood.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

While your dough rises, grab a medium bowl and combine the mozzarella, Parmesan, pepperoni (or salami), cooked sausage (if you like it extra meaty), olives, bell peppers, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. This fragrant mixture is the soul of Stuffed Italian Bread—feel free to mix in or leave out ingredients, tailoring it to your favorites.

Step 5: Shape and Stuff

Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment. Deflate the risen dough, then roll it out on a floured surface into a large rectangle, roughly 12×16 inches. Sprinkle the filling mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. Starting at the long edge, roll up the dough as tightly as you can, tucking in the goodies as you go. Pinch the seams and ends shut, and place the loaf seam-side down on your sheet.

Step 6: Top and Bake

Brush the top of your loaf generously with melted butter, then sprinkle on dried oregano and garlic powder for an extra punch of aroma and flavor. Slide the bread into the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. It’s done when it’s a rich golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped. The scent will have everyone in the house floating toward the kitchen!

Step 7: Cool, Slice, and Enjoy

Let the Stuffed Italian Bread cool for a few minutes, then garnish with parsley if you like. It slices best when still a little warm, so don’t wait too long to dig in! Serve with warm marinara on the side for dipping, and watch smiles bloom with each cheesy, savory bite.

How to Serve

Garnishes

Don’t underestimate the power of a finishing touch! Freshly chopped parsley brings a burst of color and herbal freshness that lifts the flavors. You can also shower the loaf with a bit more Parmesan or a light drizzle of good olive oil just before serving to make your Stuffed Italian Bread look (and taste!) like it came from your favorite trattoria.

Side Dishes

Stuffed Italian Bread is pretty hearty on its own, but it partners beautifully with some Italian classics. Think a tangy Caesar salad, a bowl of minestrone soup, or a platter of roasted vegetables dusted with herbs. If you’re entertaining, offer a side of warm marinara or pesto for dipping—suddenly, your dinner turns into an antipasti feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you really want to wow your guests, try slicing Stuffed Italian Bread into thick rounds and arranging them on a wooden board with cured meats, cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella. Or, slice it into appetizer-sized pieces and spear each with a colorful toothpick for easy party snacking. You can even bake mini individual loaves or “bites” for grab-and-go magic!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, simply wrap the cooled bread tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to three days—though, honestly, it rarely lasts that long in my house!

Freezing

For longer storage, you can freeze Stuffed Italian Bread with excellent results. Wrap the cooled loaf (either whole or sliced) in a double layer of plastic wrap, then pop it into a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to two months. When you’re ready for a cheesy, savory treat, just thaw it at room temperature before reheating.

Reheating

To bring your bread back to its melty, irresistible best, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes, wrapped in foil to prevent drying out. A quick toast in the oven helps revive the crispy exterior, while keeping that filling perfectly gooey inside.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought dough for Stuffed Italian Bread?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, picking up a ball of fresh or refrigerated pizza dough works perfectly well. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling and stuffing.

What other fillings could I add or substitute?

The sky’s the limit! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, provolone, or even a bit of cooked bacon. Customize Stuffed Italian Bread with your favorite Italian-inspired ingredients.

Is Stuffed Italian Bread suitable for a gluten-free diet?

If you use your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the dough, you can absolutely make a gluten-free version. Just check your meats and add-ins to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

How can I make the filling spicier?

For a spicy kick, add extra red pepper flakes, swap in hot Italian sausage, or drizzle in a touch of chili oil. You can also use spicy salami or even chopped jalapeños for a fiery variation on traditional Stuffed Italian Bread.

Can I make Stuffed Italian Bread ahead of time?

Definitely! You can assemble the loaf and let it rise overnight in the fridge, then bake it fresh before serving. Or bake it a day in advance and reheat—either way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, freshly stuffed loaf.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Italian Bread recipe truly brings the magic of Italian comfort food right to your kitchen—there’s something about breaking into a loaf packed with cheese, meats, and spices that just makes everyone happy. I hope you’ll give it a try, and don’t be surprised when everyone (friends, family, neighbors!) comes back for seconds. Happy baking!