If you’ve ever dreamed of combining two comfort food classics into one unforgettable meal, this Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe is exactly what your kitchen has been waiting for. Imagine crispy, buttery garlic bread loaded with savory spaghetti, Italian sausage, rich marinara, and melty mozzarella cheese—each bite delivering layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s simple to make yet boasts a show-stopping presentation that’s perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe lies in its straightforward and essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: from the hearty Italian sausage that forms the base, to the aromatic garlic butter spread that crisps the bread, and the vibrant marinara that unifies all the flavors. Together, they create a harmonious feast that’s both visually delightful and deeply satisfying.
- French bread (2 loaves, 16-ounce each): The perfect sturdy vessel for stuffing, with a crusty exterior and soft crumb inside to hold the filling.
- Spaghetti (8 ounces): Cooked al dente to provide that classic pasta texture that balances the chew of the bread.
- Italian sausage (1 pound): Adds rich, savory depth and slight spice that amplifies the flavor complexity.
- Olive oil: Used as needed to ensure the sausage and veggies cook perfectly without sticking.
- Onion (1 cup, chopped): Provides sweetness and crunch that perks up the meat sauce.
- Garlic (4 cloves minced + 2-3 cloves minced for butter): The aromatic star giving that irresistible punch in both the sauce and the bread spread.
- Italian seasoning (4 teaspoons total): A fragrant blend to tie together herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme throughout the dish.
- Marinara sauce (24 ounces): The heart of this recipe, offering tangy tomato richness to coat the pasta.
- Butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): This creamy base for the garlic spread ensures the baguette toasts to golden perfection.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups shredded): Melted over the top to create that ooey-gooey cheesy crown no one can resist.
- Fresh parsley or basil (3 tablespoons, chopped): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal kick at the end.
You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.
How to Make Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pasta
Start by setting your oven to 375 degrees so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. While it warms up, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until just tender. Drain the pasta well and set it aside—this will be the foundation for our delicious filling.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Sauce Base
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and brown the Italian sausage until it’s fully cooked with no pink remaining. Transfer the sausage to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Leave 2 tablespoons of that flavorful fat in the pan, adding olive oil if there isn’t enough, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant, about five minutes. Stir in the Italian seasoning and pour in the marinara sauce, letting it simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes to develop those rich flavors.
Step 3: Combine Pasta with the Sauce
Return the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure each strand is well coated in the savory sausage marinara sauce. This step infuses the pasta with the herbaceous, garlicky taste that’s integral to this Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic Butter Spread
While the sauce simmers, mix together softened butter with minced garlic and Italian seasoning until smooth and fully combined. This luscious spread will be slathered inside the bread to create that iconic garlicky crunch we all love.
Step 5: Hollow and Toast the Bread
Cut each loaf of French bread in half lengthwise and carefully hollow out most of the soft interior, leaving about a half-inch border to support the filling. Divide the garlic butter mixture in two and spread it evenly inside each hollowed bread half. Place them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until golden and fragrant—this will give ample crispiness and irresistible aroma.
Step 6: Stuff and Bake to Perfection
Once the bread is toasted, spoon half of the spaghetti mixture onto each loaf, spreading it evenly. Next, pile on an entire cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for each half to melt beautifully over the top. Bake again for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese bubbles and takes on those lovely golden brown spots. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and slice with a serrated knife to serve warm and melty slices.
How to Serve Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are the perfect finishing touch, adding a pop of color and a delicate herbal brightness that balances the richness of the garlic butter and mozzarella. You can also sprinkle a little grated Parmesan cheese or red pepper flakes if you like an extra kick.
Side Dishes
This Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe is so indulgent and filling that it pairs wonderfully with light, crisp salads— think a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a fresh tomato and cucumber salad to contrast the warming flavors. Steamed or roasted vegetables also complement the dish by adding wholesome freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the stuffed bread into individual portions and serve on a large platter for family-style sharing. You can also turn it into a picnic treat by wrapping slices tightly in foil once cooled. Another idea is to customize the filling with different meats or veggies—swap the sausage for meatballs or sautéed mushrooms for variety, while still following the same Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe method.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, wrap any leftover stuffed garlic bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making for an easy grab-and-go snack or lunch the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the stuffed bread securely in foil and place it inside a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. Frozen portions can last up to 2 months without losing much flavor or texture, perfect for a make-ahead comfort food surprise.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy and the crust lose its crispness that makes this Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe so delightful.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While French bread works best due to its structure and crust, you can try using Italian bread or a large baguette. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the filling without becoming too soggy.
What can I substitute for Italian sausage?
If you prefer a milder or vegetarian option, ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat substitute work well. You can also omit meat altogether and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the sauce for a veggie-packed version.
Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time and bake later?
Yes, you can assemble the stuffed bread, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
Can I use pre-made marinara sauce?
Definitely! A good-quality jarred marinara sauce will save time and still taste fantastic. Feel free to jazz it up with additional Italian seasoning or fresh garlic if desired.
How can I make this dish less messy to eat?
Serving the Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe in smaller, neatly sliced pieces helps with portion control and ease. Using a serrated knife ensures clean cuts without squishing the bread, and providing napkins or plates with edges to catch any sauce drips makes it more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
This Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe is a total game-changer if you crave comfort food with a fun twist. It’s straightforward to prepare, irresistibly flavorful, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you try this combo of garlic-buttered crust, hearty sausage-spiked spaghetti, and bubbling mozzarella, it will quickly become one of your go-to dishes for cozy nights and casual gatherings. Give it a whirl – your taste buds will thank you!
PrintSpaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread Recipe
A delicious and comforting Spaghetti Stuffed Garlic Bread recipe that combines the classic flavors of Italian sausage pasta with buttery garlic bread. Perfect as a hearty appetizer or a satisfying meal, this dish features a crusty French bread loaf hollowed out and filled with savory spaghetti, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and topped with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 32 minutes
- Total Time: 52 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Spaghetti and Sauce
- 2 (16-ounce) loaves French bread
- 8 ounces spaghetti, cooked and drained
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
- Olive oil, as needed to make up 2 tablespoons fat in skillet
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 24 ounces marinara sauce
Garlic Butter Spread
- 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Toppings and Garnish
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right temperature for toasting the bread and melting the cheese later.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside while preparing the sauce.
- Prepare Sauce and Sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the Italian sausage by crumbling it and cooking until fully cooked with no pink remaining. Remove sausage and drain excess fat, leaving 2 tablespoons in the skillet. Add olive oil if necessary to make up 2 tablespoons of fat. Next, add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in Italian seasoning and marinara sauce, then let the mixture simmer for 5 to 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce and toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce and sausage mixture.
- Make Garlic Butter Spread: In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Stir until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Prepare Bread: Hollow out the inside of each French bread loaf, leaving about a 1/2-inch thick border to hold the filling. Divide the garlic butter mixture evenly between the two hollowed-out bread halves and spread it generously on the interior surfaces.
- Toast Bread: Place the buttered bread halves on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven until the bread is golden and crispy.
- Assemble Stuffed Bread: Spoon half of the spaghetti mixture onto each toasted bread half, then sprinkle each with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to cover the pasta evenly.
- Bake to Finish: Bake the assembled stuffed bread in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned and the spaghetti is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the bread from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or basil, and cut into individual slices using a serrated knife. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage with ground beef or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture, but be mindful it may release more moisture.
- Make sure not to hollow out too much bread to maintain structural integrity for holding the filling.
- Leftover stuffed garlic bread can be reheated in an oven or toaster oven to keep the crust crisp.
- For added heat, add red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce while simmering.