Ricotta Stuffed French Bread

Featured in: Weeknight Dinners

Enjoy French baguette generously filled with seasoned ricotta cheese, layered with robust tomato sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella. Easy to prepare and perfect for sharing, this comforting dish delivers the familiar crunch of toasted bread combined with creamy, savory flavors. Finish with fresh basil for a satisfying vegetarian main that combines Italian-inspired ingredients in a simple, crowd-pleasing bake.

Updated on Sun, 05 Oct 2025 12:15:25 GMT
Ricotta-Stuffed French Bread Pizza with melted mozzarella bubbling over hearty tomato sauce on crusty baguette. Pin
Ricotta-Stuffed French Bread Pizza with melted mozzarella bubbling over hearty tomato sauce on crusty baguette. | grillandbites.com

This Ricotta-Stuffed French Bread Pizza takes the nostalgic comfort of French bread pizza and turns it into a truly special main dish. With creamy ricotta tucked inside a crisp baguette layered with zesty tomato sauce and a bubbling blanket of mozzarella this is the kind of meal that disappears in minutes around my family table. Every slice is packed with flavor and so easy to make you might never go back to frozen or delivery options again.

I started making this because my kids love both pizza and anything stuffed with cheese. Ever since it has been my secret weapon for game nights and impromptu gatherings.

Ingredients

  • French baguette about sixteen inches long: Choose a loaf with a golden crust and soft interior for best texture
  • Ricotta cheese: Whole milk ricotta gives the richest flavor Look for smooth and creamy ricotta without excess liquid
  • Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated is preferred for extra sharpness Adds a salty bite and depth
  • Dried oregano: Lends that classic pizzeria aroma Make sure your dried herbs are still vibrant in scent
  • Garlic powder: Brings a savory subtle kick
  • Salt and black pepper: Balances and pops the other flavors Always taste your ricotta mix and adjust seasoning if needed
  • Fresh basil: Adds vivid flavor and color Use leaves that are bright green with no black spots
  • Marinara or pizza sauce: Choose a variety with real tomato chunks and bright flavor Homemade or store bought both work well
  • Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gorgeous bubbles and stringy goodness If you can grate it fresh from a block
  • Optional black olives: Sliced for briny punch Choose pitted olives preferably oil cured for more intense flavor
  • Optional cherry tomatoes: Brings fresh juiciness The sweeter the tomato the better
  • Optional crushed red pepper flakes: For a gentle heat

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius Place parchment on a baking sheet This keeps the bread from sticking and makes cleanup easy
Prep the Bread:
Carefully slice the baguette in half lengthwise using a bread knife Hollow out a shallow well in the center of each loaf half Try to leave the shell sturdy Trim just enough for the filling to sit comfortably Save the extra bread for crumbs
Mix the Ricotta Filling:
In a mixing bowl combine ricotta Parmesan dried oregano garlic powder salt black pepper and the fresh basil Stir until the mixture is completely smooth and flecked with herbs Taste to check seasoning Add more salt or pepper if you like
Fill the Bread:
Using a spoon or spatula spread the ricotta blend evenly inside both hollowed bread halves Push it gently so it reaches the edges but stops short of overflowing
Layer the Sauce:
Spoon marinara or pizza sauce over the ricotta filling on both halves of bread Make sure you cover the cheese with a thin layer so each bite is juicy but not soggy
Top with Cheese and Extras:
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella all over the sauce Try to get some in the corners Add black olives cherry tomatoes and pepper flakes now if you want extra flavor and color
Bake to Golden Perfection:
Arrange the stuffed bread pieces on your baking sheet Place in the oven Bake for eighteen to twenty minutes You are looking for melted bubbly cheese with golden hints The bread should feel crisp and slightly hollow when tapped
Finish and Serve:
Carefully remove the bread from the oven Scatter with more fresh basil Slice crosswise into thick servings Serve while hot
Freshly baked Ricotta-Stuffed French Bread Pizza garnished with basil, ready to slice and serve hot. Pin
Freshly baked Ricotta-Stuffed French Bread Pizza garnished with basil, ready to slice and serve hot. | grillandbites.com

Fresh basil always reminds me of my grandmother pinching leaves from her backyard garden for our Sunday dinners When I add the garnish at the end I know she would have loved this dish

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before storing Wrap slices tightly in foil or place in an airtight container in the fridge They are best enjoyed within two days For best texture reheat in a toaster oven or oven until the center is warm and the edges are crispy again

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of ricotta try cottage cheese pureed in a blender for smoother texture No fresh basil Use a little extra dried oregano or add chopped parsley Provolone or fontina are delicious swaps for mozzarella For a vegan version use plant based ricotta and cheese blends available at most markets

Serving Suggestions

Serve slices with a big green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette Add a bowl of tomato soup for dipping For a heartier Italian dinner include roasted vegetables or antipasto on the side A simple sparkling lemonade pairs well with the bright flavors

Cultural and Seasonal Context

French bread pizza became popular in the US in the nineteen seventies as a quick alternative to homemade dough This version borrows from Italian traditions by including creamy ricotta and fresh basil Ideal for spring when basil is plentiful but great anytime thanks to pantry staples

Golden Ricotta-Stuffed French Bread Pizza showing creamy cheese filling and vibrant vegetable toppings for dinner. Pin
Golden Ricotta-Stuffed French Bread Pizza showing creamy cheese filling and vibrant vegetable toppings for dinner. | grillandbites.com

For a truly nostalgic yet special main dish this stuffed French bread pizza always brings joy to our table. Everyone will want seconds so make two loaves if you want leftovers!

Recipe FAQ

Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, sautéed spinach or finely chopped cooked vegetables blend well with the ricotta mixture for added flavor and nutrition.

Which cheeses work besides mozzarella?

Provolone or fontina are excellent alternatives for the topping, offering different melt qualities and taste profiles.

How can I make this dish ahead of time?

Prepare the bread with filling, sauce, and cheese, then cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

What pairs well as a side?

A crisp green salad and a glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, complement the flavors beautifully.

Is this meal suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, it contains no meat. Ensure cheeses and bread meet your dietary preferences if needed.

Ricotta Stuffed French Bread

French baguette stuffed with ricotta, topped with mozzarella and tomato sauce. Savory and crowd-pleasing.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
20 min
Overall duration
35 min


Skill level Easy

Heritage Italian-American

Output 4 Portions

Dietary requirements Vegetarian

Components

Bread

01 1 large French baguette (about 16 inches long)

Ricotta Filling

01 1 cup ricotta cheese
02 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
03 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
04 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
05 1/4 teaspoon salt
06 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
07 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish

Toppings

01 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
02 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
03 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
04 1/4 cup sliced cherry tomatoes (optional)
05 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare the oven and baking sheet: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Phase 02

Prepare the bread base: Slice the French baguette in half lengthwise. Carefully hollow out each half, creating a well for the filling, and reserve the removed bread for another use.

Phase 03

Mix the ricotta blend: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ricotta, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped basil until smooth.

Phase 04

Stuff the bread halves: Distribute the ricotta mixture evenly inside the hollowed bread halves.

Phase 05

Add sauce and toppings: Spoon marinara or pizza sauce over the ricotta layer. Evenly sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the sauce. Top with olives, cherry tomatoes, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Phase 06

Bake: Arrange the stuffed bread halves on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until the mozzarella is bubbling and golden and the bread is crisp.

Phase 07

Finish and serve: Remove from oven, garnish with additional fresh basil, slice into pieces, and serve immediately while hot.

Tools needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon or spatula
  • Bread knife

Allergy details

Review each ingredient for potential allergens and consult healthcare providers if you're uncertain about any components.
  • Contains gluten from bread and dairy from ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Verify labels for potential additives or cross-contamination.

Nutrition breakdown (per portion)

These values are estimates only and shouldn't replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 410
  • Fat: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 44 g
  • Protein: 19 g