Sausage in Bread Recipe

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time

25 minutes

Additional Time

1 hour (rising time)

Total Time

1 hour 45 minutes

Servings

8 servings

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 standard packet) active dry yeast
• 1 cup warm water (110°F to 115°F)
• 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
• 8 ounces (227g) Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash

Steps to Cook

1. Activate the Yeast

• In a medium bowl, combine the warm water and yeast. Stir gently and let stand for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy.

2. Make the Dough

• In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a well in the center and pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil.
• Using a wooden spoon or your hands, mix the ingredients until a shaggy dough forms.
• Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
• Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

3. Prepare the Filling

• While the dough is rising, cook the sausage in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
• Transfer the cooked sausage to a bowl and let cool slightly. Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese.

4. Assemble the Sausage Bread

• Punch down the risen dough to release any air bubbles.
• On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out into a large rectangle, about 12x16 inches.
• Spread the sausage and cheese mixture evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on all sides.
• Starting from the longer side, tightly roll the dough up into a log, pinching the seam and ends to seal.
• Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet, seam-side down.

5. Bake the Sausage Bread

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Brush the top of the dough with the egg wash.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cook’s Note

• For a spicier version, use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as provolone or Parmesan, to customize the flavor.
• Serve the sausage bread warm, either on its own or with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
• Leftover sausage bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

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