Directions to follow

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. Prepare the bread: Cut the loaf of French bread in half lengthwise. Hollow out the insides to create a boat-like shape.
3. Sauté garlic: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Combine ingredients: Stir in the crumbled bacon and Alfredo sauce until evenly mixed. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to taste.
5. Stuff the bread: Fill each hollowed-out bread boat with the bacon Alfredo mixture. Generously top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Place the stuffed bread boats on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving.

Best ways to enjoy it

These stuffed garlic bread boats are best served hot out of the oven, with strings of molten cheese pulling away as you take your first bite. Pair them with a simple side salad for a balanced meal, or enjoy them as an appetizer with a tangy marinara sauce for dipping. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve them alongside a zesty garlic aioli to add an extra layer of flavor.

Keeping leftovers fresh

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. You can also freeze them for up to a month; just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Helpful cooking tips

• Use day-old French bread for even better texture. Stale bread holds up nicely when stuffed and baked.
• If you want an extra crispy top, broil the stuffed boats for the last 2 minutes of baking.
• Experiment with herbs! Adding fresh basil or oregano can elevate the flavor profile immensely.

Creative twists

Feel free to switch things up! Introduce different flavors by incorporating sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or artichokes into the Alfredo mixture. If you’re aiming for a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add spice. You can also make individual servings by using small rolls instead of a full loaf of French bread for an easy appetizer option.

FAQs

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Cooking time takes about 40 minutes total: roughly 15-20 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes in the oven.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Absolutely! Store-bought Alfredo sauce is a great time-saver, and many brands offer delicious options.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini slices, or even a mix of seasonal veggies for that heartiness while keeping the flavor intact.