Cheese Bacon Cob Loaf Dip

Nothing gets a crowd excited quite like this cheese bacon cob loaf dip Rich and overflowing with gooey cheese and savory bites of bacon it turns any gathering into a party The golden toasted bread bowl makes both the vessel and the dippers so not a crumb is left behind

The first time I set this out it disappeared in less than ten minutes People were crowded around laughing and tearing off pieces to scoop every last bit Sometimes I sneak in extra brie for bonus creaminess

Ingredients

• Cob loaf: The crusty bakery style cob loaf makes the perfect edible bowl Choose one that feels sturdy but still pillowy inside
• Cream cheese: Delivers that lush base smooth and rich Go for full fat if possible for best flavor
• Sour cream: Adds tang and lightness Try to pick a thick creamy brand for the right texture
• Bacon: Chopped and pan fried this brings smoky salty flavor Opt for streaky bacon if you like crisp bites
• Pizza cheese mix: A blend of mozzarella cheddar and parmesan for melt stretch and sharpness Freshly grated will melt best
• Onion: Chopped finely and sautéed for sweetness Adds a little bite to balance the richness
• French onion soup mix: Delivers instant umami and deep savory taste Look for a low salt version if you want to control the seasoning
• Brie cheese (optional): For extra decadence and creaminess Choose one that feels ripe to the touch

Instructions

Prepare the loaf:

Begin by preheating your oven to a low setting around 110C Slice off the top about two centimeters thick Carefully hollow out the loaf leaving enough edge so it will hold its shape Tear the inside into bite size portions ideal for dipping Next set the shell lid and bread pieces on a lined tray and toast for up to ten minutes until just crisp

Cook the bacon and onion:

Heat a medium saucepan over medium high Add chopped bacon and onion letting them sizzle together Stir frequently for three to five minutes until the bacon is cooked and onions turn soft and golden Allow the mixture to shed a little fat and develop sweet savory notes

Create the cheese base:

Take the pan off the heat to low Stir in the cream cheese and sour cream breaking up the cream cheese with a spoon Blend until there are no lumps and everything looks smooth Beat in the French onion soup mix now crumbled for even flavor Toss in cubes of brie if using Add most of the grated pizza cheese keeping aside a bit for topping Keep stirring until the ingredients merge into one bubbling creamy dip

Stuff the loaf:

Take the toasted loaf shell from the oven and raise the heat to 200C Pour your molten cheese bacon filling into the cavity letting it reach nearly to the top Sprinkle the handful of remaining pizza cheese on the surface for a bubbling golden finish

Bake until golden:

Place the stuffed cob loaf back on the tray and bake for ten minutes The cheese on top should melt and bubble while the filling settles into every nook The bread shell crisps further giving the whole dish structure

Serve and enjoy:

Present the hot dip immediately Arrange toasted bread chunks and cob lid nearby for scooping Anyone standing nearby will not be able to resist tearing right in

I have a soft spot for that first scoop where you grab a toasted corner of the loaf and the cheese stretches just right My kids burst out laughing one Easter when the whole top came off in one pull so now we take turns diving in

Storage Tips

Once cool any leftovers should be wrapped in foil then kept in the fridge Slice into portions for easier reheating If the bread goes soft toast briefly in a hot oven to revive that crunch

Ingredient Swaps

Try swapping bacon for diced ham or mushrooms if you want a vegetarian touch Most soft cheeses like camembert or even a little blue cheese can be added to change up the flavor

Serving Ideas

Not just for dipping serve alongside roasted vegetables crackers or even sliced apple for contrast This dip shines at BBQs holiday buffets and movie nights

A Little Background

Cob loaf dips are an Aussie classic beloved at parties and casual gatherings since the 1980s Some families guard their recipe tweaks like secrets but the backbone remains creamy cheese and a likeable bread delivery system

Seasonal Adaptations

Use spinach or sun dried tomatoes in summer for a fresh twist Roast garlic and fold through for autumn warmth Swap the cheeses for a blend of strong cheddar and gruyere in winter

This cob loaf is guaranteed to disappear fast Serve it piping hot and watch as friends and family happily tear in for gooey cheesy bites

Common Recipe Questions

→ What cheeses are best for the filling?

A combination of cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella, cheddar, and parmesan creates a smooth, melty interior. For extra creaminess, add brie if desired.

→ How do I keep the cob loaf from getting soggy?

Pre-toasting the cob shell and bread pieces helps them stay crisp after adding the cheese mixture, ensuring a sturdy base for dipping.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

You can assemble the cob loaf with the filling and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving for the best texture and warmth.

→ What sides go well with this dish?

Extra toasted bread, crisp vegetables like carrots and celery, or crackers make great dippers for the warm filling.

→ Are there vegetarian alternatives?

Swap out the bacon for sautéed mushrooms or spinach to create a flavorful vegetarian version of this cob loaf.