Why You’ll Love This Long Black Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal, you’ll love this Long Black recipe. It’s the perfect blend of savory flavors, with ground beef and melted cheddar cheese coming together on crispy French bread. The combination of textures makes each bite satisfying, whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, so you won’t spend hours in the kitchen. I appreciate how it warms me up on chilly days, making it a go-to comfort dish. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to share this recipe with everyone you know!
Ingredients of Long Black
When it comes to cooking, having the right ingredients is key to whipping up something delicious. The Cheddar Coffee Long Black is no exception. With its combination of savory ground beef, gooey cheddar cheese, and crispy French bread, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Plus, it uses ingredients that are easy to find and usually on hand.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to gather for this comforting meal.
Ingredients for Cheddar Coffee Long Black:
- 1 loaf French bread, split lengthwise
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- 8 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 slice bread, chopped fine
- 1 small onion, chopped fine
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 8 tablespoons ketchup (divided in half)
- ½ cup milk
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. You might notice that some of them are pretty standard pantry staples, like ketchup and ground beef.
But don’t underestimate the power of fresh ingredients, like that small onion—chopping it finely can add a wonderful depth to the flavor.
And that French bread? It’s the perfect vessel for all that yummy meat and cheese. Just make sure it’s nice and crusty, because we want that satisfying crunch when you partake.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even switch things up a bit—try using different cheeses or adding some spices to the meat mixture for an extra kick. Cooking is all about experimenting, right?
How to Make Long Black
So, you’re ready to plunge into making the Cheddar Coffee Long Black? Great choice! It’s one of those dishes that can turn a simple meal into something special. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking.
First things first, preheat that oven to a toasty 450 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s heating up, grab your 1 loaf of French bread and split it lengthwise. This bread is going to be the sturdy base for all your meaty goodness.
Now, toast those halves cut side up on a broiler pan for about 5 minutes until they’re golden and crisp. Trust me, that crunch is going to be the highlight of your meal. As the bread is toasting, let’s whip up the meat mixture. In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ lbs of ground beef, 1 egg, 1 slice of bread (chopped fine), 1 small onion (chopped fine), 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper, and 8 tablespoons of ketchup (make sure to divide it in half).
Mix it all together until it’s well combined. You might feel like a master chef at this point, and that’s okay.
Once your bread has toasted and the meat mixture is ready, it’s time to assemble. Spoon that hearty mixture evenly over your toasted bread—you want it all to fit, so don’t be shy. Then, brush the top with the remaining 4 tablespoons of ketchup. Ah, the sweet tanginess of ketchup brings everything together.
Now, pop that beauty into the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll want to check for doneness; the ground beef should be cooked through. After that, top it off with 8 slices of gooey cheddar cheese. Put it back in the oven for about 3 minutes, or until that cheese is beautifully melted and bubbly.
The aroma wafting through your kitchen will make you feel like a culinary wizard. Just imagine biting into that cheesy, meaty delight—it’s going to be a moment you won’t forget.
And there you have it, your very own Cheddar Coffee Long Black. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing (or not, no judgment here). Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite.
Long Black Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic Cheddar Coffee Long Black, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to suit your taste or dietary needs.
For a lighter version, try swapping ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative. If you’re avoiding dairy, vegan cheese can work just as well. You can also play with the spices; adding garlic powder or crushed red pepper can bring a new kick.
Don’t forget about the bread—sourdough or whole grain can add unique flavors. Experimenting with toppings like caramelized onions or jalapeños keeps your Long Black exciting and fresh every time!
What to Serve with Long Black
To elevate your Cheddar Coffee Long Black, consider pairing it with sides that complement its rich, savory flavors.
I love serving it with crispy, herb-infused potato wedges; they add a delightful crunch. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette brings a rejuvenating contrast to the coffee’s depth.
For something heartier, try a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar or gouda, which echoes the drink’s cheesy notes.
Don’t forget a slice of chocolate cake or brownies for dessert; their sweetness beautifully balances the robust flavors of the long black.
Enjoy experimenting with these pairings to find your perfect match!
Additional Tips & Notes
When you’re making a Cheddar Coffee Long Black, keep in mind that the quality of the ingredients can greatly enhance the final dish.
I recommend using fresh, high-quality cheddar cheese for that rich flavor. Also, don’t skimp on the ground beef; a blend with a bit of fat will add juiciness.
For extra depth, consider adding spices like garlic powder or smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
Finally, always toast the bread until it’s golden and crisp; this adds a delightful texture.
Enjoy the process, and don’t hesitate to adjust ingredients to suit your taste!