Description
Personal Spaghetti Bread Bowls are a fun and hearty meal where al dente spaghetti tossed in a savory marinara sauce is served inside crispy, toasted bread bowls. Topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, this dish combines comfort food elements with a creative presentation perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread Bowls
- 4 small round bread loaves (like sourdough or Italian bread, about 4-6 inches in diameter)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
Spaghetti and Sauce
- 1 lb (16 oz) spaghetti pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread Bowls: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice off the tops of the bread loaves and hollow out the centers carefully, keeping the shells intact. Save the removed bread for breadcrumbs or other uses.
- Toast the Bread Bowls: Brush the inside and outside of each hollowed bread bowl with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Spaghetti: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the marinara sauce and add dried basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Combine Spaghetti and Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
- Assemble the Bread Bowls: Spoon a generous amount of the saucy spaghetti into each toasted bread bowl, filling them nicely.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the spaghetti in each bread bowl. Place them back in the oven and bake for 5 minutes more until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve immediately for a delicious and visually appealing meal.
Notes
- You can save the bread scooped from the loaves to make breadcrumbs for another recipe.
- Use your favorite marinara sauce or homemade tomato sauce for the best flavor.
- For a crispier bread bowl, toast it a few extra minutes if desired before filling.
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make a nice garnish but are optional.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
