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Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
Prepare the baguette boats: Slice the baguette into 4-6 equal portions, depending on the size of the baguette and how many servings you want. Cut each portion in half lengthwise to create boats, being careful not to slice all the way through. You want to create a hollowed-out “boat” shape for the filling.
Prepare the minced meat filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the minced meat to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Season the meat: Once the meat is cooked, add the oregano, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Remove from heat and set aside.
Assemble the baguette boats: Place the hollowed-out baguette portions on a baking sheet. Spoon the minced meat mixture into each baguette boat, packing the filling down gently. Top the meat with a generous amount of shredded Havarti cheese, ensuring the cheese covers the entire filling.
Bake the baguette boats: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges of the baguette are golden and crisp.
Garnish and serve: Remove the baguette boats from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and additional basil or thyme, if desired. Serve hot, and enjoy!
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Suggestions: These cheesy baguette boats make an excellent main dish when served with a side of salad, roasted vegetables, or French fries. They also work well as an appetizer for a party or gathering.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted again.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat, such as lentils or a meat substitute like soy crumbles, to make the filling vegetarian or vegan-friendly.
Different Cheeses: You can swap out the Havarti cheese for mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone, depending on your taste preference.
Add Veggies: For an extra nutritional boost, you can mix in finely chopped veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach with the meat filling.
FAQ:Introduction: These Cheesy Baguette Boats are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a casual dinner, a fun appetizer, or a satisfying snack. Fresh, crispy baguettes are loaded with a savory mixture of seasoned minced meat, melted Havarti cheese, and aromatic herbs. Every bite is a delicious combination of flavors, with the creamy cheese melting perfectly over the spiced meat filling. Whether you’re serving them for a special occasion or just as a treat, these cheesy baguette boats are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
1 baguette (French or Italian bread)
1 lb minced meat (beef, lamb, or your choice of plant-based meat substitute for a vegan option)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
1 cup Havarti cheese, shredded (you can use any cheese of your choice, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a different flavor)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tbsp fresh basil or thyme (optional, for extra herb flavor)
Preparation:
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