Description
Loaded Cheesy Bacon Bread
Ingredients:
1 large French bread loaf
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 cups cooked and crumbled bacon
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 cup cheese sauce (for drizzling)
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Instructions:
Prepare the Bread
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Hollow out the center of the bread loaf, leaving a thick crust.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, shredded mozzarella, and half of the bacon.
Stuff and Bake
Fill the hollowed bread with the cheese mixture.
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve
Drizzle cheese sauce on top.
Sprinkle with the remaining bacon and parsley.
Slice and serve warm!
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#CheesyBaconBread #ComfortFood #BaconLover
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect Loaded Cheesy Bacon Bread every time. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a serrated knife, carefully slice off the top third of the French bread loaf. Then, hollow out the soft interior, leaving walls and a base about 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick to create a sturdy bread bowl. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise until smooth. Fold in the shredded mozzarella and 1 1/2 cups of the crumbled bacon. Spoon this rich filling into the hollowed bread, pressing down gently to pack it in. Place the stuffed loaf on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the top is lightly golden. Remove from the oven, drizzle with warm cheese sauce, and garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley.
Serving Suggestions
This decadent bread is a show-stopping centerpiece. For a game-day spread, slice it into thick pieces and serve alongside marinara or ranch dressing for dipping. It makes a perfect companion to a bowl of tomato soup or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. For a brunch option, pair it with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. To serve as an appetizer, cut the loaf into smaller, bite-sized portions for easy grabbing.
How-to Summary
Hollow out a French bread loaf, mix a filling of cream cheese, mayo, mozzarella, and bacon, pack it into the bread, and bake until bubbly. Finish with a drizzle of cheese sauce and a garnish of extra bacon and parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the stuffed loaf up to a day in advance. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What are good cheese substitutes? For a different flavor, try using a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack, or add some grated Parmesan to the mix for a sharper taste.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness.
Can I use pre-cooked bacon? Absolutely. Pre-cooked bacon pieces or real bacon bits are a great time-saver. For the best flavor, warm them slightly before mixing into the filling.
Is there a way to make this lighter? You can use light cream cheese, low-fat mayo, and part-skim mozzarella. For more protein, consider adding a layer of scrambled eggs inside before the cheese mixture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-hollowing the bread: Leaving the walls too thin can cause the loaf to collapse under the weight of the filling.
- Using cold cream cheese: Ensure it is fully softened to avoid a lumpy filling that won’t mix smoothly.
- Undercooking: Bake until the center is hot and bubbly, not just until the top cheese melts. A food thermometer should read 165°F in the center.
- Skipping the garnish: The fresh parsley adds necessary color and a hint of freshness that cuts through the richness.
Conclusion
This Loaded Cheesy Bacon Bread is the ultimate shareable comfort food, combining crispy bread, multiple layers of cheese, and savory bacon in every bite. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet delivers maximum flavor and a dramatic presentation. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or indulgent snacks, this recipe is sure to become a requested favorite. Gather your ingredients and get ready for the delicious, cheesy pull of the perfect slice.