These Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts are fluffy, cheesy, and packed with crispy bacon bits! Imagine tearing off a warm piece and enjoying the rich flavor all at once—yum!
Honestly, these little bites make every gathering better. I love serving them warm with a side of dipping sauce. They’re a great hit, and I always end up taking the last piece! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A round loaf like sourdough or boule is best for pull-apart bread. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using a French bread or even a soft ciabatta. They all hold up well to the fillings!
Bacon: For crispy flavor, I usually use thick-cut bacon. If you prefer a healthier choice, turkey bacon works too. Just note that it might be less crispy, so cook it a bit longer if needed.
Gorgonzola Cheese: I love the tanginess it brings, but if you’re not a fan, blue cheese can substitute. Feta can also work for a creamier texture with less strong flavor.
Mozzarella Cheese: This cheese helps achieve that gooey texture we all love. If you’d like to spice it up, pepper jack cheese adds a little heat without overshadowing the other flavors.
Butter: Unsalted butter is usually what I use, but if you’re in a pinch, olive oil can replace it. Just adjust the amount if necessary, as oil is more fluid than butter.
How Do I Cut the Bread Without Making a Mess?
Cutting the bread can be tricky, but here’s a helpful technique:
- Use a serrated knife for easy cutting through the crust without smashing it.
- Cut in a crisscross pattern, about 1-inch apart, making sure not to slice all the way to the bottom. This will keep the loaf intact.
- After cutting, gently pull apart the sections slightly. This creates an opening for the garlic butter and fillings.
By following these steps, you can ensure your bread stays stable while also being stuffed to perfection! Enjoy your cooking!
Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large round loaf of bread (such as sourdough or boule)
- 6 strips of bacon
- 1/2 cup Gorgonzola cheese, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup sour cream or ranch dressing (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 25-30 minutes to cook. You’ll have about 15 minutes of baking time and some chilling time while the bacon crisps up. In total, expect to spend around 40-45 minutes to create these delightful pull-aparts!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, take your strips of bacon and cook them in a skillet over medium heat. Let them get nice and crispy—this usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Once they’re done, drain them on paper towels to get rid of any excess grease. Once cooled, crumble them into small pieces.
2. Cut the Bread:
Now, grab your sharp bread knife. Carefully cut your loaf of bread in a crisscross pattern, about 1-inch apart. Be sure not to cut all the way through! You want to create little pockets for all that delicious filling while keeping the bottom intact.
3. Make the Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter and minced garlic. This will give your bread a fantastic aroma and flavor!
4. Brush the Bread:
Gently pull apart the sections of bread to create the cracks you cut. Use a brush or drizzle the garlic butter evenly into all those little pockets. Be generous with it!
5. Stuff the Bread:
Now comes the fun part! Stuff each crisscrossed hole with mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle in the crumbled bacon and finish it off with Gorgonzola cheese. Pack it in there for maximum flavor!
6. Add a Fresh Touch:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley over the top for a fresh and vibrant touch. It adds a pop of color and flavor!
7. Bake It:
Wrap your entire loaf in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. This will help keep the bread moist. Bake for about 15 minutes, and then carefully unwrap it. Bake for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted, and the bread is crispy and golden.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once out of the oven, let it cool a bit. Serve your delicious Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts warm with a side of sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping. Enjoy pulling apart each cheesy, bacon-filled piece!
They are perfect for parties, game day, or a cozy night in. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While sourdough or boule works best, you can also use French bread or a soft ciabatta. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold the fillings without falling apart!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They’ll last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that delicious crispy texture!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bread and stuff it a day ahead! Just cover it tightly and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What Can I Substitute for Gorgonzola Cheese?
If Gorgonzola isn’t your style, you can substitute with any blue cheese or even feta for a milder taste. Creamy goat cheese also pairs well for a unique twist!