Cheese Bacon Cob Loaf

There is nothing quite like a cheese and bacon cob loaf dip at a party or weekend gathering This recipe transforms a crusty bread loaf into an irresistible cheesy centerpiece packed with smoky bacon and plenty of flavor I have brought this to so many family game nights and it always disappears fast

The first time I made this my friends kept hovering by the table tearing off chunks of bread and I barely had time to get a bite for myself It has been my go to party dip ever since

Ingredients

• Cob loaf: Look for a rustic bread with a firm crust A day old loaf holds up best for the dip
• Streaky bacon: Adds salty savory flavor Fry until crisp for the best texture
• Cream cheese: Makes the dip creamy and rich Use a block type and let it come to room temp before mixing
• Sour cream: Brings tang and keeps things light Use full fat for extra silkiness
• Cream: Helps everything blend together smoothly Avoid ultra heat treated for best flavor
• Chives: Give a pop of fresh oniony flavor Snip them right before adding in
• Grated cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds sharpness Try for a good quality block cheese that you grate yourself

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the bacon:

Slice the bacon into small pieces and scatter in a cold pan Set the pan on medium heat Let the fat slowly render and cook until the bacon is browned and crisp At least six to eight minutes Stir occasionally to prevent burning Transfer to a plate to cool fully

Mix the filling:

Place the cream cheese in a large mixing bowl Make sure it is at room temperature Add the sour cream the splash of cream chives grated cheddar cheese and cooled bacon Stir until completely smooth and well blended You want no visible streaks

Prepare the cob loaf:

Position the loaf on a chopping board Use a sharp serrated knife to slice off the top one third to make a lid Using your hands pull out the soft inner bread to leave a hollow shell Saving the bread pieces for dipping

Assemble the dip:

Place the hollowed loaf on a lined baking tray Arrange the torn bread pieces around it Spoon the dip mixture into the loaf filling right to the brim Replace the bread lid

Bake the loaf:

Slide the baking tray with the filled cob and bread into a preheated oven at one hundred eighty degrees Celsius Bake for twenty to thirty minutes until the loaf is golden and the filling warmed through and gooey

Serve the dip:

Take the tray out of the oven Remove the lid Serve warm alongside the crispy torn bread pieces for dipping right into the loaf

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The cream cheese just makes this dip so satisfying I remember my kids fighting over the crispy bacon bits and now they want this dip at every holiday

Storage Tips

Store the leftover cob loaf tightly wrapped or in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days To reheat cover loosely with foil and place in a hot oven until warmed through The bread will crisp up again and the cheese mixture stays melty

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the bacon for ham or cooked shredded chicken For extra flavor stir in caramelized onions or a handful of wilted spinach If you prefer a lighter version use light sour cream and reduce the cheddar slightly for the same creamy texture

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Serving Suggestions

This cob loaf dip is perfect for sharing among friends at parties barbecues or picnics Cut up extra veggies like carrots celery or cucumber for dipping to balance out the richness It also works well as a cozy snack on movie nights

Cultural Context

Cob loaf dips have roots in Australian entertaining culture where filling a bread loaf with a savory dip is a party staple Every family has their own twist on the classic and it is loved for both its taste and sense of nostalgia

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?

Bake the filled loaf until the crust is crispy and the filling is fully warmed through. Serve immediately for best texture.

→ Can I prepare the cob loaf a day in advance?

Yes, assemble ahead and chill covered in the fridge. Bring to room temperature before baking as directed.

→ Are alternative fillings possible?

Absolutely! Add vegetables like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or corn for variety.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Cover with foil and bake at 180°C until the filling is hot and the bread remains crisp.

→ Can I substitute the bacon?

Try diced ham, shredded chicken, or a vegetarian alternative to suit your preferences.

→ Can it be served cold?

It can be eaten cold, but reheating restores the gooey texture and crispy crust.