Sourdough Jack Bread

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
2. 2
   With a sharp bread knife, cut bread in a grid-like (cross-hatch) pattern, taking care NOT to cut through the bottom crust.
3. 3
   Insert cheese slices between each deep cut (about 2 dozen slices).
4. 4
   Place melted butter, scallions, and poppy seeds in a small bowl. Stir to mix well. Make a blanket of aluminum foil large enough to totally encompass the bread. Place bread in the center of the foil. Drizzle butter mixture over bread and cheese.
5. 5
   Wrap foil tightly around bread and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes; open foil and bake 10 minutes more, until cheese is melted.
6. 6
   To serve, place unwrapped bread in a napkin-lined bread basket. Guests serve themselves by ripping pieces of cheese bread from the loaf.
7. 7
   SUBSTITUTE: You can substitute a flavored artisan bread for the sour dough.