Cheese Bacon Cob Loaf Dip

Cheese and bacon cob loaf dip is a guaranteed showstopper at any gathering. Creamy cheeses and smoky bacon fill a crusty round loaf, which gets baked until the whole thing is bubbling and golden. It is the kind of dip people keep coming back to and one that vanishes fast from the party table.

I first made this for a family picnic at the park and everyone was scraping the inside of the loaf for extra cheese I have done it for birthdays and even relaxed movie nights since and people get excited every time

Ingredients

• Large round cob loaf or sourdough boule: serves as both the serving vessel and the dip scoop Look for fresh crusty loaves with a tender interior
• Olive oil or butter for brushing: gives a rich flavor and helps get the inside golden and toasted
• Cooked bacon chopped: brings smoky salty flavor Use thick rashers for hearty bites or streaky bacon for even more richness
• Cream cheese softened: acts as the creamy foundation of the dip Choose the best quality you can find for the smoothest texture
• Sour cream: adds tang and creaminess Full fat works best
• Grated cheddar cheese: gives sharp flavor and the signature melt Shred your own for extra stretch
• Mozzarella: for that extra stretch and gooeyness The more freshly shredded the better
• Spring onions finely sliced: bring a pop of green and mild onion flavor Pick ones with crisp ends and vibrant green colour
• Garlic powder: keeps things simple but you get a gentle background flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste: makes everything come together Taste your mixture and adjust as needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Oven:

Set your oven to 180C That is 350F so that your cob loaf and dip bake evenly and get golden all over

Prep the Cob Loaf:

Slice a circular lid from the top of your cob loaf Use a sharp bread knife and save that lid for later Hollow out the middle of the loaf taking care to leave a thick enough wall for stability Tear the inside bread into chunky pieces for dipping and set aside Brush all cut bread surfaces plus the torn bread pieces with olive oil or melted butter Coat evenly to help them crisp up and taste rich

Mix the Dip Base:

In a large bowl blend your cream cheese and sour cream until mostly smooth Add cheddar mozzarella spring onion garlic powder bacon salt and pepper Stir well until the mix is thick and creamy throughout No streaks and every bite should have bits of bacon and cheese

Stuff and Close:

Pack the cheesy bacon mixture into the hollowed loaf all the way to the rim Put the cut off bread lid back on top and loosely wrap the whole thing with foil to help it bake gently

Bake to Melty Goodness:

Place your cob on a baking tray and bake covered for 20 minutes Uncover and bake another 5 to 10 minutes until the bread is golden and the dip is bubbly Spread bread chunks on a tray and toast them in the oven for the final 10 minutes for crunchy perfect dippers

Serve Hot:

Place the finished cob loaf on a large platter Scatter the toasted bread chunks all around Serve while everything is piping hot for ultimate cheese pulls and flavor

Pin it

The bacon is my personal hero here I love the smoky bites you find in every scoop At my nephew’s birthday he made a game out of finding the cheesiest bit with the most bacon and declared it the winner

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers scoop out the filling into an airtight container and fridge it for two days The bread will soften but ten minutes in the oven perks everything up Or reheat with extra cheese and a splash of cream in the microwave for a snack

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to make this without pork use cooked chicken or turkey bacon For a meat free dish try sautéed chopped mushrooms and caramelized onions for deep savory flavor Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or use smoked gouda for a fancier cheese twist

Serving Suggestions

This dip shines at parties picnics or watching the footy Serve with veggie sticks crackers or pretzels as extra dippers in case you run out of bread It makes an epic centrepiece for game nights or a relaxed Sunday lunch

Cultural and Historical Context

Cob loaf dips are classic Australian party fare from the eighties and nineties Often seen at family gatherings and backyard barbecues the tradition is to pass the dip around and everyone breaks off hot bread for scooping The nostalgia and comfort of this dish make it a celebration favorite down under

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of bread works best for the dip?

A round cob loaf or a sourdough boule with a sturdy crust holds up best to the rich, creamy filling and baking process.

→ Can you make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and hollow out the loaf in advance. Assemble and bake just before serving for best results.

→ What can I dip besides bread chunks?

Try serving with crackers, vegetable sticks, or pretzels if you prefer a lighter or gluten-free option.

→ How can I add extra flavor or spice?

Mix in caramelized onions, chopped jalapeños, mushrooms, or top with grated Parmesan for extra depth.

→ What’s the best way to serve this for a party?

Place the hot cob on a platter surrounded by toasted bread pieces for easy, communal dipping straight from the loaf.

→ Can leftovers be reheated?

Yes, wrap the cob in foil and warm in the oven until heated through. Bread may be crispier but still delicious.