Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts are fluffy bread bites bursting with delicious flavors. Each piece is filled with crispy bacon and tangy Gorgonzola cheese, making them hard to resist!
When I make these, my friends can’t stop pulling them apart. Whether as a snack or a party treat, they’re always a hit—just be ready to share! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A round loaf of crusty bread is key for this recipe. I like sourdough for its flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, French bread works too! You can even use a soft bread like ciabatta for a different experience.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds that wonderful salty crunch. If you want a lighter option, try turkey bacon, or for a vegetarian version, consider using smoked tempeh or mushrooms to bring in that savory flavor.
Gorgonzola Cheese: This cheese is rich and sharp. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with feta or goat cheese for a different taste. For a milder version, opt for mozzarella or cheddar cheese instead.
Butter: Butter brings out the flavors in the garlic and herbs. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute with olive oil or a plant-based butter to make it dairy-free.
What’s the Best Way to Cut the Bread for Stuffing?
Cutting the bread properly is crucial for filling it with all those delicious ingredients. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a sharp serrated knife for clean cuts.
- Place the loaf on a cutting board and make vertical cuts about 1-inch apart, stopping just above the bottom crust.
- Turn the loaf and make similar horizontal cuts to create a crosshatch pattern. Be careful not to cut all the way through!
- This method allows the filling to seep into the cracks while keeping the loaf intact.
With these cutting tips, you’ll have a tasty pull-apart that everyone can enjoy. Happy baking!
Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large round loaf of crusty bread (such as sourdough or French bread)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
- 1 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar for extra meltiness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 30-35 minutes of cooking time. That’s roughly 50 minutes total from start to finish! You’ll spend a little time cutting the bread and preparing the filling, then just let the oven work its magic. Perfect for get-togethers or a cozy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when your pull-aparts are ready to go in!
2. Prepare the Bread:
Take your round loaf of bread and place it on a cutting board. With a sharp knife, make vertical cuts about 1-inch apart, and then make the same cuts horizontally. Be careful not to cut all the way through the bottom crust so your loaf stays together.
3. Mix the Butter:
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture will help infuse the bread with a delicious taste!
4. Drizzle and Stuff:
Gently pull apart the bread cubes and drizzle some of the garlic butter mixture inside the cuts. Make sure you get it into all the crevices. Then, stuff them with crumbled bacon and Gorgonzola cheese. If you’d like it extra cheesy, add in some mozzarella or cheddar too!
5. Final Butter Drizzle:
Drizzle the remaining garlic butter over the top of the stuffed loaf for that extra flavor boost.
6. Wrap It Up:
Wrap the entire loaf loosely in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. This helps to hold in moisture while it bakes.
7. Bake the Bread:
Put the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes covered with foil. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
8. Garnish and Serve!
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and sprinkle some chopped parsley on top if you like a fresh touch. Serve it warm, and watch everyone pull apart the chunks of bread to enjoy the delicious bacon and cheese inside!
Enjoy your rich, savory Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts as an appetizer or side that everyone will want to share!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Gorgonzola adds a distinct tang, feel free to substitute with other cheeses like feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Mozzarella and cheddar are great options if you prefer a milder taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the loaf by cutting it and stuffing it with the fillings a few hours in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just note that you may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What Bread Is Best for This Recipe?
A round loaf of crusty bread, like sourdough or French bread, works best for pull-aparts because it holds its shape and has a great texture. You can also use ciabatta for a softer option, but make sure it’s sturdy enough to withstand being pulled apart.
