There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a sandwich that’s bursting with fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. This stuffed sourdough sandwich is no ordinary sandwich—it’s a feast in itself, layered with delicious fillings like basil pesto, creamy avocado, and melty mozzarella. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.
I first came across the idea of stuffing a sourdough loaf while trying to think of a unique way to use up some leftover bread from a dinner party. Instead of making the usual sandwiches, I wanted to create something that looked impressive and tasted even better. After a bit of experimenting, this stuffed sourdough sandwich was born. It’s not only easy to make but also perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and discover how to create your own gourmet stuffed sandwich.
What You’ll Need
- 1 loaf of sourdough
- 2 tbsp basil pesto
- 1 head of cos lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 80g shaved ham
- 125g mozzarella, sliced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 2 avocados, mashed
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Assemble Your Stuffed Sourdough Sandwich
1. Prepare the Sourdough Loaf
Start by cutting your sourdough loaf in half horizontally. Once you have two halves, scoop out some of the soft bread from the inside. This will create space for all the delicious fillings and help keep everything in place. Don’t throw away the scooped-out bread—save it to make croutons for salads or soups later!
2. Layer on the Goodness
Spread a generous amount of basil pesto on both halves of the bread. The pesto adds a rich, herby flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Then, start layering: add a handful of shredded cos lettuce for a bit of crunch, followed by slices of tomato for juiciness. Next, layer on the shaved ham and sliced mozzarella—the ham adds a savory note while the mozzarella provides a creamy, mild cheese flavor. Finally, add slices of cucumber for freshness and a layer of mashed avocado for a creamy, buttery texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Slice and Serve
Once your sandwich is fully loaded, place the top half of the sourdough loaf back on. Press down gently to compact all the fillings, making it easier to slice. Using a sharp knife, cut the stuffed loaf into thick slices, ensuring each slice has a bit of every ingredient. Serve immediately and enjoy the explosion of flavors and textures in each bite!
Ways to Make It Your Own
One of the best things about this stuffed sourdough sandwich is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize your sandwich to suit your taste:
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant for a meat-free version.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.
- Different Cheeses: Swap out the mozzarella for another cheese, such as provolone or Swiss, for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Boost: Add slices of grilled chicken breast or turkey for extra protein.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed sourdough sandwich is substantial enough to be served on its own, but if you’re looking to make it part of a larger meal, here are some pairing ideas:
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the sandwich.
- Chips or Fries: For a classic combination, serve with a side of crispy chips or sweet potato fries.
- Soup: A bowl of tomato soup or creamy potato leek soup would complement the sandwich beautifully, especially on a chilly day.
Storage Tips
If you have any leftovers (though I doubt you will!), wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. The sandwich will keep well for up to a day. However, keep in mind that the bread may become a bit soggy due to the moisture from the fillings, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
A Perfect Sandwich for Any Occasion
This stuffed sourdough sandwich is more than just a sandwich—it’s a full meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a picnic, hosting a casual get-together, or simply looking for a quick and satisfying lunch, this recipe has got you covered. The combination of fresh ingredients and delicious flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, go ahead and give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Loaded Sandwich Loaf
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of sourdough
- 2 tbsp Basil pesto
- 1 head cos lettuce shredded
- 1 tomato sliced
- 80 g shaved ham
- 125 g mozzarella sliced
- 1 cucumber sliced
- 2 avocados mashed
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
Method:
- Cut the loaf in half horizontally, then scoop out some of the bread inside to make room for the fillings (you can use the leftover bread to make croutons!)
- Spread on the basil pesto the add the lettuce, tomato, ham, mozzarella, cucumber, avocado and season.
- Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- This sandwich is highly customizable—feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on your preferences (e.g., use turkey instead of ham or add roasted peppers).
- The scooped-out bread can be repurposed into croutons or breadcrumbs for other recipes.
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