Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf (1 lb / 450g) French or Italian bread
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp (8g) dried parsley
  • 1/4 tsp (1.5g) salt
  • 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
  • 2 cups (480ml) thick marinara sauce
  • 15 oz (425g) whole milk ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5g) black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Slice off a thin rectangle from the top of the bread loaf and scoop out the center crumb, leaving a 1-inch wall around the sides and bottom.
  2. Combine softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt; brush the mixture both inside the hollowed center and across the top crust.
  3. Place the loaf on a baking sheet and toast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5 minutes to set the structure.
  4. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
  5. Stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 8–10 minutes until the sauce is thick and reduced.
  6. In a small bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, and black pepper until smooth.
  7. Spread the ricotta mixture evenly across the bottom of the toasted bread loaf.
  8. Spoon the concentrated meat sauce over the ricotta layer, smoothing it to the edges.
  9. Top the meat sauce with shredded mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan cheese.
  10. Cover loosely with aluminum foil and bake until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.