
Stuffed Bread is a hearty and flexible meal idea that turns everyday items into an amazingly crispy, golden treat packed with flavor. It's perfect when you're throwing a party, watching sports with friends, or just need to get dinner on the table fast - this simple dish won't let you down.
What Makes Stuffed Bread So Popular
Stuffed Bread wins fans because you can fill it with just about anything. Stuff it with classic combos like cheese and sausage or try something different with roasted veggies or meat substitutes. It works for everything from family meals to casual hangouts because it's so easy to change up.
Key Ingredients You'll Need
- Base Material:
- Pizza dough: 13.8 oz (391g) chilled to 40°F (4°C)
- Must expand to 16x12 inches without holes
- Thickness: Even 1/8 inch all around
- Meat Options:
- Ground beef/sausage: ½ lb (227g) browned and broken up
- Best with 80/20 fat level for juiciness
- Cook until it hits 165°F (74°C)
- Pepperoni: ½ cup (56g) cut into ¼-inch bits
- Dairy Components:
- Mozzarella: 1 cup (113g) grated, with 45-52% moisture
- Cheddar: ½ cup (56g) grated, aged at least 6 months
- Keep both cheeses cold at 40°F (4°C) for best melting
- Flavor Mix:
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon (1.5g)
- Italian herbs: ½ teaspoon (1g)
- Fine sea salt: ½ teaspoon (3g)
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon (0.5g) freshly ground
- Final Touches:
- Large egg: 1 (50g) at room temp 65°F (18°C) for brushing
- Marinara sauce: ¼ cup (60ml) around 70°F (21°C)
Cooking Method Breakdown
- Kitchen Setup
- Get your oven hot at 375°F (190°C), double-check with another thermometer. Put rack in the middle. Cover baking sheet with parchment. Room should be 68-72°F (20-22°C) and not too humid (under 60%).
- Dough Handling
- Stretch dough on lightly floured counter to make a 16x12-inch rectangle. Keep it exactly 1/8 inch thick. Don't let dough warm up past 50°F (10°C) while working.
- Mixing Stuffing
- Mix your meats, cheeses, and spices until they're well combined. Keep the mix cool at 45-50°F (7-10°C). Spread it evenly on dough but leave a 1-inch empty border all around.
- Forming Loaf
- From the long side, roll everything up tight to make a 16-inch log. Press the edges and ends closed. Put it on your lined pan with the seam facing down.
- Surface Prep
- Whisk egg with 1 tablespoon water until smooth. Brush it all over the top and sides without letting it puddle anywhere.
- Oven Time
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until it reaches 190°F (88°C) inside. The outside should turn a nice golden color (Pantone 7509 C) all over.
- Cooling Off
- Let it sit on the pan for 5 minutes until it cools to 145-150°F (63-66°C). Cut into 1-inch slices using a bread knife.
Ways To Make It Your Own
Try different fillings to switch up your Stuffed Bread. Want a meatless option? Throw in cooked spinach, mushrooms, and feta cheese. For something heartier, add some grilled chicken pieces and bacon bits. You can even go global with Mexican spices, Italian herbs, or Asian-inspired flavors.
How To Enjoy It
Cut the Stuffed Bread into rounds while it's still warm for easy grabbing. Set out some dipping options like marinara, melted garlic butter, or ranch dressing. Turn it into a full meal by adding a green salad or some roasted veggies on the side.
Keeping And Warming Up Leftovers
Any extra slices can go in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or pop them in the freezer for about 2 months. Want that just-baked crunch? Warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10 minutes. In a hurry? The microwave works too—just cover with a damp paper towel.

Secrets For Amazing Results
Always get your oven hot before baking and don't skip the egg wash for that golden crust. Feel free to swap fillings based on what you like or dietary needs. Play around with different herbs to change the taste. Using parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze, and roll everything tight so the filling doesn't leak out during baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I prep this in advance?
Yep, you can roll it up to a day early and refrigerate it with a cover. Just brush some egg wash before baking.
- → How do I stop the filling from spilling out?
Leave some dough clear around the edges and make sure those seams are tightly pinched. Also, don't overstuff it or it'll spill during baking.
- → Is it okay to freeze this stuffed bread?
No problem! Wrap well once baked and cooled, and store for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge and heat it up in the oven.
- → Can I switch up the meats in the filling?
Sure can! Swap in cooked sausage, ham, crispy bacon, or turkey if you'd like something different.
- → How can I stop the bottom from getting soggy?
Go easy on the marinara inside and use it for dipping instead. Also, make sure your meat is drained so it's not too greasy.