Sausage Bread Recipe

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

30 minutes

Additional Time

1 hour (rising)

Total Time

1 hour 50 minutes

Servings

8-10 servings

Ingredients

• 3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 package (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 1 cup (240ml) warm water (110°F-115°F or 43°C-46°C)
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil
• 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) melted butter (for brushing)

Steps to Cook

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and yeast. Create a well in the center and pour in the warm water and olive oil. Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.

2. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

3. While the dough is rising, cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks, until it’s no longer pink, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and let the sausage cool slightly.

4. Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 12x18 inches (30x45 cm).

5. Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch (2.5 cm) border on all sides. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sausage.

6. Starting from the long side, tightly roll up the dough, jelly-roll style. Pinch the seam and the ends to seal.

7. Place the rolled dough, seam-side down, on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap and let it rise for an additional 30 minutes.

8. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

9. Using a sharp knife, make 3-4 diagonal slits across the top of the dough to allow steam to escape during baking.

10. Bake the sausage bread for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. Brush the top with the melted butter.

11. Allow the sausage bread to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cook’s Note

• For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.
• You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, or add other fillings like diced onions, peppers, or herbs.
• The baked sausage bread can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

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