This cheese and bacon cob loaf is an irresistible delight that showcases a crusty round loaf hollowed out and filled with an exquisite combination of melted cheese and crispy bacon. With its mouthwatering blend of textures and savory flavors, this dish is perfect for sharing at gatherings or as a quick and easy appetizer that will leave everyone wanting more.
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Get ready to indulge your taste buds with the irresistible combination of cheese and bacon in the form of a delightful cheese and bacon cob loaf.
This savory dish features a crusty bread bowl filled with a delicious dip made from melted cheese and crispy bacon, creating a symphony of flavors and textures that is sure to please any crowd.
Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a centerpiece at gatherings, the cheese and bacon cob loaf is a culinary masterpiece that will leave your guests craving more.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Prepare to experience the ultimate comfort food with a tantalizing twist - the cheese and bacon cob loaf. This mouthwatering creation brings together the irresistible combination of melted cheese and crispy bacon, encased in a crusty bread bowl. Here are four reasons why you'll fall head over heels for this delectable recipe:
- Irresistible Flavor Fusion: The marriage of gooey, melted cheese with the savory, smoky crunch of bacon creates an explosion of flavors that is hard to resist. Each bite offers a delightful combination of creamy richness and crispy indulgence.
- Textural Delight: Indulge your senses with the contrasting textures in every mouthful. The crusty bread bowl provides a satisfying crunch, while the melted cheese envelops your taste buds in its smooth and velvety embrace. The crispy bacon adds a delightful burst of texture, completing the sensory experience.
- Versatile and Customizable: The cheese and bacon cob loaf recipe offers endless possibilities for personalization. You can choose your favorite cheeses, whether it's sharp cheddar, gooey mozzarella, or a blend of your own creation. You can also experiment with different types of bacon, adding unique flavors and profiles to suit your preferences.
- Perfect for Sharing: This recipe is designed for gatherings and social occasions, making it an ideal choice for entertaining. Whether you're hosting a party, game night, or a casual get-together, the cheese and bacon cob loaf becomes the star of the show, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy its delectable flavors together.
What You’ll Need To Make Cheese And Bacon Cob Loaf
To create this delectable cheese and bacon cob loaf, you will need the following ingredients:
Cob loaf (or bread bowls): A medium cob loaf serves as the edible vessel that holds the flavorful filling. It provides a sturdy base and adds a delightful textural contrast to the soft and creamy interior. If you can’t find a cob loaf, you can use two smaller bread bowls instead.
Cream cheese: Cream cheese adds a luscious and creamy texture to the filling. Its mild and slightly tangy flavor complements the other ingredients, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
Sour cream: Sour cream contributes to the creamy and tangy notes in the filling. It adds a smooth and velvety consistency while providing a pleasant contrast to the richness of the cheeses.
Heavy cream: Heavy cream helps to create a smooth and luxurious texture in the filling. It adds richness and a velvety mouthfeel, elevating the overall creaminess of the dish.
Cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese brings a bold and sharp flavor to the filling. It melts beautifully, creating a gooey and indulgent consistency, while infusing the dish with its distinctive savory taste.
Mozzarella: Mozzarella cheese is known for its excellent melting properties and its ability to create stringy, stretchy goodness. Its mild flavor complements the other cheeses and adds to the gooey, melty texture of the filling.
French onion dip mix: French onion dip mix is a flavorful blend of herbs, spices, and dried onions. It adds depth and a savory umami taste to the filling, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the cheese and bacon cob loaf. Ranch seasoning is another great option if you can’t find French onion mix.
Bacon: Bacon brings a smoky, salty, and crispy element to the dish. It adds a burst of flavor and a satisfying crunch, complementing the creamy cheeses and providing a delightful textural contrast.
Chives: Chives contribute a fresh and mild onion-like flavor to the cheese and bacon cob loaf. They add a subtle herbaceous note and a hint of brightness to balance the richness of the other ingredients.
By combining these carefully selected ingredients, you'll create a cheese and bacon cob loaf that boasts a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
The cob loaf serves as the vessel, while the cream cheese, sour cream, and heavy cream create a luxuriously creamy filling. The combination of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses adds richness and gooeyness, while the French onion dip mix imparts savory depth. The bacon brings smoky, crispy goodness, and the chives add a touch of freshness.
Together, these ingredients create a culinary masterpiece that will captivate your taste buds.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Follow these simple instructions to make your own bacon and cheese cob loaf and prepare to impress your taste buds and your guests with this indulgent treat.
Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 320 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius).
Step 2: Prepare the cob loaf. Carefully slice off the top to create a lid, then gently hollow out the soft bread from the center, creating a bowl shape. Reserve the torn bread pieces for dipping later. If using individual bread bowls, ensure they are hollowed out properly.
Step 3: Using your preferred method, cook the bacon until crispy (I recommend cooking bacon in an air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes, but this method for oven fried bacon is another easy option). Chop roughly and set aside.
Step 4: In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, and French onion dip mix. Using a handheld mixer, mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 5: Mix the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, ¾ of the chopped bacon, and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped chives into the cheese mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Reserve the remaining bacon and chives to garnish at the end.
Step 6: Spoon the cheese and bacon mixture into the hollowed-out cob loaf or individual bread bowls. Ensure the filling is evenly distributed and packed tightly.
Step 7: Place the filled cob loaf or bread bowls on a baking sheet and carefully transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes or until the dip is warmed through.
Step 8: Scatter the torn bread pieces around the cob loaf and return the tray to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread becomes golden and crispy.
Step 9: Once baked, remove the cheese and bacon cob loaf from the oven. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and chives over the top and serve the cob loaf alongside the torn bread pieces for dipping.
Tips & Tricks For Making The Best Cheese And Bacon Cob Loaf
Prepare yourself for the ultimate cheese and bacon cob loaf experience by following these tips and tricks to create the best version of this mouthwatering delight. From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the baking process, these expert suggestions will ensure your cheese and bacon cob loaf is a culinary masterpiece that will leave everyone craving for more.
Choose high-quality ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients to elevate the flavors of your cob loaf. Select flavorful cheeses, premium bacon, and fresh chives to enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Customize the cheese blend: Experiment with different cheese combinations to find your perfect balance of flavors. Consider using a mix of sharp cheddar, mild mozzarella, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for added depth.
Cook the bacon to crispy perfection: Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the cob loaf. Cook the bacon until it reaches the desired level of crispiness, then allow it to cool slightly before crumbling or chopping it into small pieces.
Enhance the filling with seasonings: While the cheese and bacon are the stars of the show, don't forget to add extra depth of flavor with seasonings. Consider adding a pinch of garlic powder, a dash of paprika, or a sprinkle of dried herbs to the filling mixture for a burst of savory goodness.
Ensure even distribution of filling: When spooning the cheese and bacon mixture into the hollowed-out bread bowl, make sure it is evenly distributed for consistent flavor throughout. Press the mixture gently into the bowl, ensuring no gaps or air pockets.
Brush the bread with butter or oil: Before baking, brush the top of the cob loaf or bread bowls with melted butter or olive oil. This step adds a golden, crispy crust to the bread and enhances its overall appearance.
Monitor baking time and temperature: Keep a close eye on your cob loaf during baking to prevent burning. Follow the recommended baking time and temperature, but adjust as needed based on your oven's individual characteristics.
Serve with complementary dipping options: While the torn bread pieces are a classic choice for dipping, consider offering additional options. Sliced baguette, crackers, or vegetable sticks can add variety and cater to different dietary preferences.
Allow for resting time: After removing the cob loaf from the oven, allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to settle and the cheese to firm up slightly, making it easier to handle and enjoy.
Garnish creatively: Add a finishing touch to your cheese and bacon cob loaf by garnishing it with extra cheese, a sprinkle of fresh chives, or a drizzle of your favorite sauce. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra burst of flavor.
By following these expert tips and tricks, you'll be well on your way to creating the best cheese and bacon cob loaf imaginable. From the perfect cheese blend to the ideal baking technique, these suggestions will help you achieve a delectable dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Serving Suggestions And Substitutions
Elevate your cheese and bacon cob loaf experience with these enticing serving suggestions that will impress your guests and enhance your enjoyment of this delectable dish.
- Party Appetizer: Serve the cheese and bacon cob loaf as the centerpiece of a party spread. Surround it with an assortment of sliced baguettes, breadsticks, crackers, and vegetable crudités for dipping. It makes for a delicious and interactive appetizer that will keep your guests coming back for more.
- Game Day Snack: Perfect for game day gatherings, cut the cheese and bacon cob loaf into bite-sized pieces and arrange them on a platter. Serve alongside bowls of tangy barbecue sauce, creamy ranch dressing, or spicy sriracha mayo for dipping. It's a crowd-pleasing snack that will have sports fans cheering.
- Family Meal: Pair the cheese and bacon cob loaf with a fresh garden salad or a bowl of warm tomato soup for a comforting family meal. The combination of creamy, cheesy filling and crusty bread is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
- Picnic Delight: Pack the cob loaf in a picnic basket along with some chilled beverages and take it to your favorite outdoor spot. Enjoy it alongside cured meats, pickles, olives, and fresh fruit for a delightful al fresco dining experience.
Don't be afraid to get creative in the kitchen and make the cheese and bacon cob loaf your own with these versatile ingredient substitutions that offer a range of flavors and cater to dietary preferences, allowing you to customize this beloved recipe to your liking.
Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your preferences and availability. Substitute cheddar with Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese. Replace mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
Bacon: If you prefer a different meat option or want a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with cooked and crumbled sausage, diced ham, or even sautéed mushrooms for a smoky and earthy taste.
Cob Loaf: If you can't find a cob loaf, consider using a round loaf of crusty bread, such as a French boule or a sourdough loaf. Ensure that the bread has a thick and sturdy crust that can hold the filling.
French Onion Dip Mix: If you don't have access to French onion dip mix, create your own blend by combining dried onion flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs (such as thyme or parsley), salt, and black pepper. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste preferences.
Chives: Substitute chives with thinly sliced green onions or finely chopped fresh parsley for a similar fresh and herbaceous flavor.
Remember, these substitutions can add unique twists to the classic cheese and bacon cob loaf, allowing you to tailor the recipe to your liking and accommodate dietary restrictions or preferences. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy the process of making this delightful dish your own.
How To Store Leftovers
To fully enjoy the fresh and indulgent flavors of the cheese and bacon cob loaf, it is recommended not to store leftovers. This dish is best enjoyed immediately after baking when the bread is crispy and the cheese is gooey and melty.
However, if you do have leftovers, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or wrapping it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the leftovers, and they can be kept for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, ensuring the cheese is melted and the bread becomes crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! While a traditional cob loaf or bread bowl is commonly used, you can experiment with different bread varieties to suit your taste preferences. Consider using a round loaf of crusty French bread, a sourdough boule, or even a seeded loaf. Just ensure that the bread has a sturdy crust and a soft interior that can hold the filling without becoming too soggy.
Certainly! The cheese and bacon cob loaf is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Feel free to add other ingredients such as diced bell peppers, caramelized onions, sun-dried tomatoes, or chopped jalapeños to the filling for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture content of the added ingredients, as too much liquid can affect the overall consistency of the filling.
While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it may contain additives that prevent clumping, which can affect the texture of the filling. It's best to shred your own cheese for a smoother and more melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Tools And Equipment For This Recipe
KitchenAid Hand Mixer: This hand mixer is my go-to for mixing everything from cake mix to cheese balls. It's powerful, easy to use, and easy to clean.
Glass Mixing Bowls: These glass mixing bowls are super versatile. You can use them for mixing, storing, and serving.
Baking Tray: This non-stick baking tray is perfect for baking your cheese and bacon cob loaf. It’s also great for making cookies and other baked goods.
📖 Recipe
Cheese And Bacon Cob Loaf
Ingredients
- 1 medium cob loaf
- 225 grams full-fat cream cheese softened
- 150 grams sour cream
- 150 mL heavy cream
- 1 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 packet French onion dip mix
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon cooked and roughly chopped
- 3 tablespoon chives finely chopped
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 320 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius).
- Prepare the cob loaf. Carefully slice off the top to create a lid, then gently hollow out the soft bread from the center, creating a bowl shape. Reserve the torn bread pieces for dipping later. If using individual bread bowls, ensure they are hollowed out properly.
- Using your preferred method, cook the bacon until crispy (I recommend cooking bacon in an air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes). Chop roughly and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, heavy cream, and French onion dip mix. Using a handheld mixer, mix until well combined and creamy.
- Mix the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, ¾ of the chopped bacon, and 2 tablespoons of finely chopped chives into the cheese mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Reserve the remaining bacon and chives to garnish at the end.
- Spoon the cheese and bacon mixture into the hollowed-out cob loaf or individual bread bowls. Ensure the filling is evenly distributed and packed tightly.
- Place the filled cob loaf or bread bowls on a baking sheet and carefully transfer them to the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes or until the dip is warmed through.
- Scatter the torn bread pieces around the cob loaf and return the tray to the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread becomes golden and crispy.
- Once baked, remove the cheese and bacon cob loaf from the oven. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and chives over the top and serve the cob loaf alongside the torn bread pieces for dipping.
Nutrition
* Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content may vary based on brands of ingredients used, measuring methods, portion sizes, and more.
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