How to Make It :
Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out a little bit of the soft white bread from the center of each half to create a hollow “boat” for your filling.
Cook the Filling: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, and minced garlic. (Note: If you are adding mushrooms, toss them in now, too!) Cook until the beef is completely browned and the vegetables are beautifully softened.
Season and Drain: Season the meat mixture generously with salt and pepper to taste. Drain off any excess grease so your bread doesn’t get soggy!
Stuff the Bread: Spoon the savory beef and pepper mixture evenly into the hollowed-out French bread halves. Top the meat generously with an even layer of your shredded provolone cheese.
Wrap and Bake: Wrap the stuffed bread halves gently but tightly in aluminum foil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 20 minutes to let the bread get warm and crusty.
Melt and Serve: Carefully open the foil to expose the top of the bread. Bake for 5 more minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. Let it cool for just a minute, then slice it into thick pieces and serve!
Serving Tip: This garlicky, cheesy stuffed bread is wonderfully hearty on its own, but it pairs perfectly with a handful of crunchy potato chips or a simple, crisp side salad to round out the meal!
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