This Father’s Day, skip the store-bought gifts and win Dad’s heart the delicious way with a warm, cheesy, homemade treat that even the little ones can help create. Whether you’re planning a special breakfast-in-bed moment or a laid-back lunch that brings the whole family together, this Melted Mozzarella & Mushroom Loaded Baguette is the perfect way to say “we love you” one crunchy, melty bite at a time.

This recipe, brought to you by the South African Mushroom Farmers’ Association, is not only packed with flavour but also super simple to whip up. Think toasted baguette, golden mushrooms, sweet peppers, and gooey mozzarella. It’s a cheesy hug in sandwich form!

🍄 What You’ll Need

Serves 8 — because Dad should never have to share… but he probably will.

• 1 large fresh white baguette, cut into 3 individual portions

• 3 Tbsp butter, softened

• 1 brown onion, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 250g Portabello mushrooms, thickly sliced

• 1 tsp mixed dried herbs

• 1 cup / 125g mozzarella cheese, grated

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper, to taste

🔥 How to Make It

1. Preheat & Prep:
   Set your oven to grill and let it heat. Slice your baguette and spread the butter on each inside half. Toast these in a pan or under the grill until golden and crisp. Set aside.

2. Mushroom Magic:
   In a hot pan, sauté mushrooms in a bit of olive oil until golden and delicious. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper. Remove and set aside.

3. Veggie Sizzle:
   In the same pan, add your sliced onion and peppers. Cook for around 5 minutes until soft and fragrant.

4. Stack It Up:
   On a baking tray, lay out the bottom halves of your toasted baguette. Layer with onions and peppers, a sprinkle of cheese, mushrooms, then more cheese. Don’t be shy — go big!

5. Melt & Serve:
   Pop the loaded baguettes under the grill for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is beautifully melted. Top with the other baguette halves and serve warm.

🧀 Why This Works

This recipe is comfort food made simple — no fancy gadgets, no long prep time. It’s perfect for a quick Father’s Day surprise that feels like it came straight from the heart. Plus, mushrooms add that rich umami flavour while mozzarella ties it all together in cheesy harmony.

So, round up the kids, roll up your sleeves, and make something truly memorable for Dad this weekend. Bonus points if you serve it with a cold drink and a hug.

Image and Recipe Credit 

The South African Mushroom Farmers’ Association