Cheesy Ground Beef Garlic Bread Boats

Cheesy Ground Beef Garlic Bread Boats take the classic comfort of garlic toast and turn it into an impressive, interactive meal. By hollowing out a crusty loaf of bread to form edible “boats,” you create the perfect vessel to hold a savory, seasoned ground beef filling smothered in bubbly, melted cheese.

Ingredients

• The Bread Base:
  • 1 large loaf of French bread or Italian bread (about 12–15 inches long)
• The Garlic Butter Spread:
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• The Beef Filling:
  • 1 lb lean ground beef or turkey
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning or smoked paprika
  • 1/4 cup no-salt-added tomato paste or crushed tomatoes
  • Black pepper to taste (and optional salt-free herb seasoning)
• The Cheese:
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella and cheddar cheese blend

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Form the Bread Boats: Cut the French bread loaf in half horizontally (or cut into individual shorter boat sections). Using your fingers or a spoon, gently hollow out the center of the bread to create a trough, leaving a sturdy outer shell and bottom. (Save the bread crumbs you pull out for meatballs or stuffing!)
3. Make the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter, minced garlic, and parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the inside and edges of your hollowed-out bread boats.
4. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the lean ground beef and diced onion until the meat is fully browned and the onions are tender. Drain any excess fat.
5. Season and Simmer: Stir the minced garlic, onion powder, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and no-salt-added tomato paste into the beef. Let it simmer for 3 minutes until thick and aromatic.
6. Pre-Toast the Shells: Place the garlic-buttered bread boats on your baking sheet and bake for about 5 minutes until the edges are lightly crisp.
7. Fill and Top: Spoon the warm, savory ground beef mixture generously into the hollowed-out channels of the bread. Top evenly with the shredded cheese blend.
8. Bake Until Bubbly: Return the loaded boats to the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, bubbling, and golden brown. Slice into individual portions and serve warm.

A Heart-Healthy Side