Cheesy Spaghetti Stuffed Bread Bowls

Description

These cheesy spaghetti stuffed bread bowls are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and filled with savory meat sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or comfort food cravings.

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Ingredients (Serves 4)

For the Bread Bowls:

• 4 round crusty bread rolls (sourdough or Italian rolls)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

For the Spaghetti Filling:

• 8 oz (225g) spaghetti

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ lb (225g) ground beef (or Italian sausage)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1½ cups marinara sauce

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Topping:

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• Extra grated Parmesan (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread Bowls

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Slice the tops off each bread roll.

3. Hollow out the inside, leaving about ½-inch thick walls.

4. Brush the inside lightly with olive oil.

5. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until slightly crisp. Set aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Spaghetti

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.

3. Drain and set aside.

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Step 3: Make the Meat Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add chopped onion and cook until softened (3–4 minutes).

3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

4. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart.

5. Drain excess grease if needed.

6. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

7. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

8. Add cooked spaghetti and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.

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Step 4: Assemble the Bread Bowls

1. Fill each hollowed bread bowl generously with spaghetti mixture.

2. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.

3. Sprinkle extra Parmesan if desired.

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Step 5: Bake

1. Bake for 12–15 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.

2. For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes (watch carefully).

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Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

• Serve hot with a side salad or garlic butter.

• Great for game nights or casual dinners.

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Tips for Best Results

• Use sturdy bread so it holds the filling.

• Do not overcook the pasta; it will bake again in the oven.

• Add ricotta inside for an extra creamy version.

• You can substitute ground beef with chicken or vegetarian crumbles.