This is always a hit with everyone! I never knew it could be turned into a dip!

In the heart of the Midwest, where the winters are long and the kitchens are warm, there's a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table: the Cheesy Sausage Bread Bowl. This recipe is a nod to the hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meals that have been passed down through generations in our family. It's the kind of dish that brings everyone together, gathered around the table, pulling apart pieces of bread to reveal the gooey, cheesy goodness inside. Perfect for a cozy evening or a family gathering, this bread bowl is a testament to the simple pleasures of home cooking.

This Cheesy Sausage Bread Bowl pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a bowl of hearty tomato soup. The freshness of the salad or the acidity of the soup complements the richness of the cheese and sausage, creating a balanced meal. For a touch of sweetness, consider serving it with a side of apple slices or a light fruit salad. And of course, a glass of iced tea or a cold beer makes for a perfect accompaniment.

Servings: 6

1 large round loaf of sourdough bread
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 pound cooked sausage, crumbled
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cut the top off the loaf of bread and hollow out the inside, leaving about an inch of bread around the edges to form a bowl.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mozzarella, cheddar, cream cheese, and sour cream until well blended.

Stir in the cooked sausage, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Spoon the cheese and sausage mixture into the hollowed-out bread bowl.

Place the filled bread bowl on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the top to brown slightly.

Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.

Serve warm, pulling apart the bread to dip into the cheesy filling.

For a different flavor profile, try using spicy Italian sausage or adding a handful of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the cheese mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyère or fontina, for a more complex taste. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or spinach. To make the bread bowl extra crispy, brush the outside with melted butter before baking.