Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf Recipe

If you want to get the party going, this Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf is the answer. I mean, it is the creaminess, the cheesiness, plus it disappears in minutes flat. I find it difficult to resist that crunchy bread with oozy cheese, and wonderfully smoky bacon, plus the best part: it is so simple to throw together, although made with very simple ingredients.

What is Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf All About?

Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf is basically an Australian specialty: a round loaf hollowed out or “cobbed,” filled with a creamy cheese and bacon dip, then baked until perfectly golden and bubbly. Those who yank out the bread chunks with fingers make use of all that for dipping, so it’s the perfect crowd-pleaser appetizer! It’s warm, cheesy, and tasty in every bite.

Ingredients

For the cob loaf:

• 1 large round cob loaf
• 2 cups bread chunks (from the hollowed loaf)

For the filling:

• 250 g (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• 6 rashers of bacon, cooked and chopped
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Loaf Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Slice off the top of the cob loaf and take as much bread out from inside. Save these pieces for dipping.
2. Bacon cooking: Fry bacon till crispy, then chop into small pieces.
3. Filling formation: Mix cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, mozzarella, bacon, and green onions in a bowl. Season it with salt and pepper.
4. Fill the loaf: Spoon the filling into the cob loaf. Place the bread lid back on.
5. Baking: Close-filled loaf with foil; bake for 20 minutes. Open foil; let the top brown and become bubbly.        
6. Serving: Bake some more until golden and bubbly; allow to cool slightly before serving. Place on a platter, surrounding it with bread and cracker dippers. Coffee tables or on the couch—whatever makes you happy!

Storage Tips

• Store leftovers up to 2 days in the fridge.
• Reheat: Warm the cob in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm.
• Never microwave them, as it will make the bread soft and full of holes.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with extra crackers, carrot sticks, or celery when entertaining.
• Introduce the creamy mixture to a fresh tossed salad to help with the richness.
• Great for game day, barbecues, or family outings.

Pro Tips & Variations

• For a spiciness punch, fold in some chopped jalapeños.
• Smoked Gouda can be swapped for cheddar for a more pronounced flavor.
• Spinach or corn can be stirred in for some textural variation
• Consider using turkey bacon or cruelty-free bacon if you want a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can the Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf be prepared in advance?

Yes, the preparation can be done for the filling and cob loaf, then chilled. Bake them just before serving.

2. What type of bread is best?

A round, crusty cob loaf or a sourdough loaf is best suited for firm baking.

3. Is it possible to prepare a cheese and bacon cob loaf without the meat?

Yes, it’s possible! Just skip the bacon or substitute it with mushrooms or sundried tomatoes.

4. What are ways of preparing it gluten-free?

Simply, use a gluten-free loaf and make sure that your other ingredients like sour cream and bacon are gluten-free.

Try It!

This Cheese and Bacon Cob Loaf is creamy and cheesy and utterly addictive. One of those recipes that bring people together around the table and have them begging for more. Next time you throw a bash, make this, and it will be your party!