If you’re craving a warm, comforting treat that’s bursting with flavor, you’re going to love this Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of savory Italian sausage, gooey melted mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan cheese all wrapped up in a golden, flaky bread. Whether you’re looking for a hearty appetizer or a satisfying main, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes for gatherings or cozy nights in. The rich blend of spices and the deliciously tender bread make every bite irresistible, and I can’t wait for you to try it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe delights with a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the savory sausage to the creamy mozzarella, these components come together beautifully to create a bread that’s bursting with flavor and texture.
- Italian sausage (1 pound, mild or spicy, casings removed): The heart of the dish, providing that unmistakably rich and savory flavor.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Adds creamy, melty goodness that binds the filling together.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated): Brings a sharp, nutty kick to elevate the flavor profile.
- Garlic (1 clove, minced): Infuses the filling with a fragrant depth and subtle warmth.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that enhances every element with classic Italian vibes.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): Perfect for those who love a subtle spicy twist.
- Frozen bread dough or pizza dough (1 loaf or 1 pound, thawed): The golden, tender crust that holds everything together.
- Egg (1 beaten, for egg wash): Gives the bread a gorgeous glossy finish and beautiful color.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon chopped, optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and mild herbaceous flavor as a garnish.
How to Make Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. It’s important to cook it thoroughly until browned and no longer pink. Once done, drain off any excess fat and let the sausage cool slightly. This step ensures your filling is flavorful and not greasy.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out your thawed bread or pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 10 by 14 inches. The even shape makes rolling your sausage and cheese filling into a perfect log so much easier. Trust me, taking a little extra time here pays off when slicing through the finished bread.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage with shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you enjoy a touch of spice. Make sure everything is evenly mixed to get a consistent bite in every slice.
Step 4: Assemble and Roll
Spread the sausage mixture evenly over the dough rectangle, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges to help seal the bread. Then carefully roll the dough lengthwise from one long edge into a tight log shape. Pinch the edges and ends together to seal the filling inside — this keeps all those savory juices locked in while baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place your sealed roll seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg for that enviable golden shine. Bake it in your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 25 to 30 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling beautifully inside. Don’t rush the resting — let the bread cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
How to Serve Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes take this Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe up a notch. A scattering of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely pop of green and a clean, herbal aroma that brightens the richness.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a tangy marinara or a zesty tomato sauce for dipping. For a full meal, consider serving alongside a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a bowl of creamy soup — the bread’s rich filling complements so many flavors!
Creative Ways to Present
Slice your sausage and cheese bread into thick, hearty pieces for a rustic platter perfect for game day or a party spread. Or, for a more elegant touch, cut into smaller bite-sized portions and serve skewered with a toothpick as irresistible finger food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (not that there usually are!), wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps well and tastes just as delicious warmed up the next day!
Freezing
This Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring those fresh-baked flavors back, reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also pop them in a toaster oven for a quicker option that crisps the crust nicely.
FAQs
Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?
Absolutely! The recipe works great with either mild or spicy Italian sausage. Spicy sausage will add an extra kick and depth of flavor, perfect if you enjoy a little heat.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you want to mix things up, substituting mozzarella with provolone or cheddar cheese adds a different but equally delicious flavor. Provolone will add a smokier note while cheddar gives a sharper bite.
Can I make this bread ahead of time before baking?
Yes, you can assemble the bread and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature for about 20 minutes before sliding it into the oven to ensure even baking.
Is it possible to use homemade bread dough?
Definitely! If you prefer making your own dough, any basic bread or pizza dough recipe will work wonderfully for this sausage and cheese bread. Fresh homemade dough might even add an extra fluffy texture.
How do I prevent the bread from getting soggy?
Draining excess fat from the cooked sausage before mixing is key to keeping the bread from getting soggy. Also, leaving a 1-inch border when spreading the filling helps keep the edges sealed tight, locking moisture inside without leaking.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Whether you’re serving it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying main, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do — once you try it, I bet it’ll become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
This Sausage and Cheese Bread Recipe is a deliciously hearty and cheesy stuffed bread perfect for appetizers or main courses. Made with flavorful Italian sausage, melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, and seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, all wrapped in soft bread dough and baked to golden perfection. Serve warm or at room temperature, ideal for game days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Sausage Mixture
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Bread and Topping
- 1 loaf frozen bread dough (thawed) or 1 pound pizza dough
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the stuffed bread.
- Cook Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles, until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and allow the sausage to cool slightly.
- Roll Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the thawed bread or pizza dough into a large rectangle approximately 10 by 14 inches.
- Mix Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optionally red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- Assemble Bread: Spread the sausage and cheese mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
- Roll Dough: Starting from one of the long sides, carefully roll the dough into a log shape. Pinch the seams and ends to seal the filling inside.
- Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled dough seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the top with the beaten egg to achieve a golden, glossy crust.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese inside is bubbling.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- This bread is delicious served warm or at room temperature.
- You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or cheddar cheese for different flavors.
- Serve with marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the flavor experience.
- Perfect for game day, parties, or casual get-togethers.
