# Components:
→ Bread
01 - 1 large French baguette (about 16 inches long)
→ Ricotta Filling
02 - 1 cup ricotta cheese
03 - 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
05 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
07 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
08 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil, plus more for garnish
→ Toppings
09 - 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
10 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
11 - 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
12 - 1/4 cup sliced cherry tomatoes (optional)
13 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
# Directions:
01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - 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.
03 - In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine ricotta, Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped basil until smooth.
04 - Distribute the ricotta mixture evenly inside the hollowed bread halves.
05 - 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.
06 - 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.
07 - Remove from oven, garnish with additional fresh basil, slice into pieces, and serve immediately while hot.
