Ingredients
Method
Prepare the Bread
- Position an oven rack about 6 inches from the broiler and preheat the broiler to high.
- Slice the French bread loaf in half lengthwise, then cut each half crosswise to make 4 equal pieces, each about 6-7 inches long. Place the pieces cut-side up on a baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with 1 teaspoon garlic powder until well combined.
- Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread. Broil for 3-5 minutes, watching closely, until the edges are golden brown and the butter is melted. Remove from the oven and set aside. Reduce the oven temperature to 400 degrees F.
Make the Meat Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- Return the skillet to medium heat. Stir in the remaining 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, onion powder, salt, Italian seasoning, and pasta sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assemble and Bake
- Spoon the meat sauce evenly over the toasted French bread pieces.
- Drop spoonfuls of ricotta cheese over the meat sauce on each piece.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
- Bake at 400 degrees F for 15-20 minutes, until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, use sautéed mushrooms and spinach instead of meat. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven or toaster oven to maintain crispness. Make ahead by preparing the meat sauce and storing it separately for up to 2 days; assemble just before baking. Avoid over-broiling the bread in step 4—watch carefully to prevent burning. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal. For extra richness, add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before baking.