Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf

Why Make This Recipe

Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf is a crowd-pleaser perfect for gatherings, game days, or cozy nights in. This dish combines creamy cheese and crispy bacon in a warm, homemade bread bowl. It’s simple to prepare and offers a delightful experience as guests can dip bread pieces into the cheesy goodness. Plus, the aroma while it’s baking will have everyone excited to dig in!

How to Make Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf

Ingredients

• 1 cob loaf
• 250 g cream cheese
• 250 g sour cream
• 200 g bacon, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups grated pizza cheese (mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan), reserve 1 handful
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 tbsp French onion soup mix
• Optional: 100 g brie cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 110°C (230°F).
2. Slice about 2 cm off the top of the cob loaf and remove the inside. Break the inside into bite-size pieces and set aside.
3. Place the lid, bread pieces, and cob shell on a tray lined with baking paper. Toast in the oven for 5-10 minutes.
4. In a saucepan over medium-high heat, cook the chopped bacon and onion for 3-5 minutes until the bacon is crispy.
5. Lower the heat and mix in the cream cheese and sour cream until everything is combined. Add the French onion soup mix and the optional brie cheese, as well as the pizza cheese (keeping a handful aside). Stir until melted and heated through, about 2 minutes.
6. Remove the tray from the oven and increase the temperature to 200°C (390°F).
7. Transfer the toasted bread pieces and lid to a bowl. Pour the cheese mixture into the cob loaf and sprinkle the reserved handful of pizza cheese on top.
8. Bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
9. Serve warm with the toasted bread pieces on the side. Optionally, cut the cob lid into pieces for dipping.

How to Serve Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf

Serve the Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf warm right out of the oven. Arrange the toasted bread pieces on a platter next to the cob loaf for easy dipping. You can add some fresh herbs or a salad on the side for a complete meal.

How to Store Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf

If you have leftovers, let the Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf cool down first. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven before serving to restore some of the original texture.

Tips to Make Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf

• Use your favorite type of cheese for a personal touch.
• If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
• Make sure not to overcook the bacon; it should be crispy but not burnt.

Variation

You can try adding a variety of vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrition. For a different flavor profile, consider using flavored cream cheese, like garlic herb.

FAQs

1. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and assemble the cob loaf right before baking.

2. What can I use instead of bacon?
You can skip the bacon or use alternatives like diced ham or cooked sausage. For a vegetarian option, add more vegetables.

3. Can I freeze Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf?
It’s best to eat it fresh, but you can freeze the cheese mixture before baking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before using it in the cob loaf.