Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread

Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread is a delectable fusion of crispy bread, rich garlic butter, melted cheese, and savoury bacon. This indulgent treat is perfect for gatherings, parties, or as a comforting snack. Its pull-apart nature makes it an interactive and enjoyable dish for all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavour Combination: The blend of garlic, cheese, and bacon creates a mouth-watering taste that is hard to resist.
• Perfect for Sharing: Its pull-apart design makes it ideal for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
• Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is accessible to both novice and experienced cooks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as an appetiser, side dish, or a standalone snack.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 loaf of French bread
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Bread: Using a serrated knife, make diagonal cuts across the loaf, about 1 inch apart, ensuring not to slice all the way through. Rotate the loaf and make similar cuts to create a crosshatch pattern.
3. Make Garlic Butter: In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
4. Apply Garlic Butter: Carefully open the cuts in the bread and drizzle the garlic butter mixture into the crevices, ensuring even distribution.
5. Add Cheese and Bacon: Stuff the shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheeses into the cuts, followed by the crumbled bacon.
6. Wrap and Bake: Wrap the loaf in aluminium foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 minutes.
7. Unwrap and Finish Baking: Unwrap the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crispy.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
• Herb Infusion: Incorporate herbs like rosemary or thyme into the garlic butter for added flavour.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda, provolone, or blue cheese for unique taste profiles.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a vegetarian version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Wrap any leftovers in aluminium foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the wrapped bread on a baking sheet, and heat for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

What type of bread is best for this recipe?

A sturdy loaf like French or Italian bread works best, as it holds up well to the fillings and baking process.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bread with garlic butter, cheese, and bacon, wrap it in foil, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Is it possible to freeze the bread?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked bread wrapped tightly in foil for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Absolutely. Pre-cooked bacon saves time and works well in this recipe.

How can I make it less rich?

Reduce the amount of cheese and butter, and consider using turkey bacon for a lighter version.

What dipping sauces pair well with this bread?

Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a garlic aioli complement the flavours nicely.

Can I add vegetables to the bread?

Yes, finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers or onions can be added for extra flavour and texture.

How do I prevent the cheese from sticking to the foil?

Spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray or ensure the cheese is well-contained within the bread cuts.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Use a gluten-free loaf of bread to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for the fresh garlic cloves if needed.

Conclusion

Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread is a delightful and indulgent dish that combines the comforting flavours of garlic, cheese, and bacon. Its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing taste make it a go-to recipe for various occasions. Whether served as an appetizer, side, or snack, this bread is sure to impress and satisfy.

Print