These Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts are the perfect mix of crispy bacon and creamy cheese, all baked in soft bread. Great for sharing or for a tasty snack all by yourself!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of bacon and cheese? I always end up eating way more than I planned to! Pair it with a warm dip for an extra yummy experience.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Crusty Bread: A round loaf, like ciabatta or sourdough, works great. If you can’t find these, any sturdy bread will do. Just avoid soft sandwich bread as it won’t hold the fillings well.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra chewiness, but turkey bacon is a good alternative if you’re looking for a healthier option. You can also use pancetta for a twist on the flavor.
Gorgonzola Cheese: If Gorgonzola is too strong for your taste, try a milder cheese like feta or mozzarella. These will still provide a lovely creamy texture without overpowering the dish.
Unsalted Butter: You can substitute with olive oil or melted margarine for a dairy-free or lighter option. Butter adds a rich flavor but oil will help keep the bread soft.
How Do I Cut the Bread for Pull Aparts Without Messing It Up?
Cutting the bread correctly is essential for easy pulling apart. Follow these steps:
- Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. A serrated knife works best for bread.
- Cut the loaf into 1.5-inch cubes, being careful not to slice all the way through the bottom. Leave about an inch intact to keep it together.
- Take your time and make even cuts to ensure all pieces can be pulled apart easily when baked.
With practice, you’ll get the hang of it, making beautiful pull-apart bread every time! Enjoy safe cutting!
Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pull Aparts:
- 1 round loaf of crusty bread (about 10 inches in diameter)
- 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of baking time, making a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll have a warm, cheesy, and savory treat ready to share in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, your oven will be ready when you finish preparing everything!
2. Prepare the Bread:
Take your crusty round loaf and carefully cut it into 1.5-inch cubes. Be careful to cut almost all the way through, but leave the bottom intact so the loaf holds its shape. Think of it like an accordion!
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, and optional black pepper. This will give your bread a lovely flavor throughout!
4. Drizzle the Butter:
Gently pull the bread cubes apart slightly to create small gaps. Drizzle or brush the garlic butter mixture generously over and between the cubes. Make sure every part is well-coated for maximum flavor.
5. Add the Goodies:
Now it’s time to stuff! Fill the gaps between the bread cubes with the chopped bacon and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese. This is where all the deliciousness happens!
6. Sprinkle with Parsley:
Top the bread with the chopped fresh parsley for a bit of color and extra flavor.
7. Bake in the Oven:
Carefully place the prepared bread on your lined or greased baking sheet and pop it into the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the bread is warm, the cheese is slightly melted, and the crust is beautifully golden.
8. Let It Cool:
Once out of the oven, let the bread cool for a few minutes. It will make it easier to handle and enjoy!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with any extra parsley if you like, then serve warm. Enjoy pulling apart those delicious chunks filled with cheesy, bacon goodness!
This recipe makes a fantastic appetizer or side dish that will be a hit at any gathering or just for your personal snacking pleasure. Enjoy!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If Gorgonzola isn’t your favorite, you can use feta, mozzarella, or cheddar instead. Each will bring a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, so they stay crispy.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bread and stuff it with fillings the day before, then wrap it in foil and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake, adding an extra few minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
What Can I Serve This With?
This pull-apart bread pairs perfectly with dips like ranch or spinach-artichoke dip! You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
