- Preheat and Prepare: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with non-stick cooking spray. This step is essential to prevent the dough from sticking and to ensure a beautiful, golden crust.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion. Stir occasionally, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are translucent. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to prevent the bread from becoming soggy. A lean ground beef works well for this recipe to minimize grease.
- Prepare the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, unroll the refrigerated French bread dough. Using a rolling pin, gently roll it into a large rectangle, approximately 12×18 inches. The dough should be thin enough to roll up easily without tearing.
- Add Condiments: Evenly spread the ketchup and mustard over the rolled-out dough. Make sure to leave a 1/2-inch border around all the edges. This border will help you seal the bread and keep the fillings from leaking out during baking.
- Layer the Fillings: Evenly distribute the cooked ground beef mixture over the condiments. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped pickles on top. Try to spread the ingredients in a thin, even layer so that you get a taste of everything in each slice.
- Add Cheese: Place the American cheese slices in a single layer over the fillings. You can slightly overlap them to ensure full coverage. The cheese will melt and bind the fillings together, creating a rich, gooey center.
- Roll and Seal: Carefully roll up the dough from one of the long ends to the other, creating a tight log. Once rolled, pinch and seal the edges tightly to prevent any filling from escaping. Place the rolled dough seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush and Bake: In a small bowl, whisk the large egg. Using a pastry brush, generously brush the top and sides of the dough with the beaten egg. This egg wash will give the bread a beautiful, shiny, golden-brown finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds evenly over the top of the dough.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is a deep golden brown and the cheese is melted. The exact time may vary slightly depending on your oven.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the stuffed bread to cool on the baking sheet for at least five minutes before slicing. This resting time helps the bread set, making it easier to slice without the fillings spilling out. Slice the loaf into thick, individual portions. Serve warm with Thousand Island dressing on the side for dipping, just like a classic cheeseburger.
Recipe Notes and Tips for Perfection
- Dough alternative: While French bread dough is the recommended choice, you can also use crescent roll dough sheets or pizza dough for a similar effect. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as it may vary.
- Make it your own: Feel free to customize the fillings to your liking. You can add chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or even a different type of cheese.
- Storage: If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer for best results.
- Serving Suggestion: This stuffed bread pairs perfectly with a side of coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
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