The Bacon and Cheese Cobb Loaf is a classic Australian favourite, known for its indulgent mix of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and a warm loaf of bread. This recipe can be traced back to the 1800’s when simple, rustic English cooking traditions where used for the hollowing of old bread, which was filled with rich ingredients.
Over the years, it has become a popular addition to gatherings and family dinners, often enjoyed as an appetiser or snack during barbecues.
Aside from its rich, savoury taste, the Bacon and Cheese Cobb Loaf can provide a good source of calcium and protein due to its generous cheese and bacon content. For a slightly healthier version, using lean bacon and low fat cheese can reduce the overall fat content without sacrificing too much flavour.
Bacon and Cheese Cobb Loaf Tips
- Use day old bread for a sturdier cobb loaf that will hold the filling better. Fresh bread may become too soft when baked.
- Pre cook the bacon until it is just crispy, but not too hard, to maintain a nice texture in the filling.
- Slice the top of the loaf evenly when cutting it off, so it can serve as a lid for the loaf during baking.
- Keep the bread pieces bite sized when hollowing out the cobb loaf. This makes them easier to use for dipping.
- Wrap the loaf in foil if you prefer a softer crust. Bake it without foil for a crispier crust.
- Mix herbs or garlic into the cheese filling for extra flavour. Chives, parsley, and garlic are great choices.
- Let the filling cool slightly before adding it to the loaf, as very hot filling might make the bread soggy.
- Add a bit of spice by including a small amount of chilli flakes or smoked paprika into the cheese mixture.
- Use a variety of cheeses for more depth of flavour. Try adding Parmesan or Swiss cheese to the mix for an added punch.
- Toast the bread pieces you removed from the centre of the loaf for an extra crispy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy filling.
Ingredients
- 1 cobb loaf, medium sized
- 200g bacon, finely chopped
- 250g cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 1 tablespoon chives, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Cut the top off the cobb loaf with a bread knife and set aside.
- Hollow out the centre, tearing the inside of the bread into small, bite sized pieces.
- In a pan, fry the finely chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and let cool slightly.
- In a bowl, mix the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, cooked bacon, and chives. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the cheese and bacon mixture into the hollowed out cobb loaf. Place the top of the loaf back on.
- Arrange the loaf and the torn bread pieces on a baking tray. Bake for 20 minutes or until the filling is hot and the bread pieces are golden.
- If you like a softer crust, you can wrap the loaf in foil before you place it into the oven.
- Serve immediately, using the bread pieces to dip into the cheesy filling.
The Bacon and Cheese Cobb Loaf is a fantastic addition to any gathering or event, sure to impress guests with its rich, creamy filling and crispy bacon. Serve it warm and enjoy the blend of textures with every dip. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a party with friends, this dish is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.
For more delicious baked treats, why not try our Banana Bread Recipe next?
When baking the cobb loaf, consider using the appropriate tray, to find the right baking tray for you, we recommend you review the following: Baking trays.
