Ingredients
- 1 large round bread loaf (sourdough or Italian)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Using a serrated knife, carefully cut a circle on top of the bread loaf, about 1 inch from the edge. Remove the top and hollow out the inside of the loaf, leaving a 1-inch wall. Reserve the bread chunks for dipping.
- In a large bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, cubed mozzarella, torn basil leaves, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Spoon the tomato and mozzarella mixture into the hollowed-out bread loaf, pressing gently to fill the space.
- Replace the reserved bread top on the loaf and wrap the entire bread bowl in aluminum foil.
- Place the wrapped bread bowl on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the loaf is warmed through.
- Unwrap the bread bowl and place it on a serving platter. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and serve immediately, accompanied by the reserved bread chunks for dipping.
Gather your friends and family around this smoky Caprese bread bowl, a rustic Italian feast nestled in a cozy loaf, and let the aroma of melted mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil transport you to the sun-drenched hills of Tuscany with every heavenly bite!
