Ingredients:

  • 1 large (12 inch / 30 cm) French bread loaf or baguette
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp (2g) dried parsley
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) salt
  • 1/2 lb (225g) lean ground beef
  • 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
  • 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 2 cups (225g) shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Slice the loaf in half lengthwise. Using a serrated knife, carve out a 1-inch deep trench in the center of each half, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
  2. Mix softened butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Spread this mixture inside the hollowed-out center and over the top crust.
  3. Place loaves on a parchment-lined baking sheet and toast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5 minutes to create a moisture barrier.
  4. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
  5. Stir marinara sauce into the beef and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta, beaten egg, Parmesan, black pepper, and 1 cup of the mozzarella. Fold in the meat sauce until well incorporated.
  7. Spoon the ricotta mixture into the toasted bread boats and top with the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
  8. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the crust is golden brown.