Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts are the perfect party bite! Soft, cheesy bread is loaded with crispy bacon and tangy gorgonzola, making each piece a tasty treat.
I love watching friends pull apart the gooey pieces. It’s hard to eat just one! Pair them with some marinara for extra fun. Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Round Loaf of Bread: A dense round loaf like sourdough is perfect for this recipe. If that’s not available, you can use a regular pull-apart bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold all that cheesy goodness!
Gorgonzola Cheese: This cheese gives a distinct tang. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with blue cheese or feta for a different flavor profile. I prefer the creaminess of gorgonzola, but feel free to experiment!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor and crunch. Need a lighter option? Turkey bacon works as a healthy alternative, though it has a different taste. I typically like using thick-cut bacon for extra chewiness!
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and thyme enhance the flavor. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used, just remember to use less since they are more concentrated.
Cream Cheese: This helps bind everything together. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cream cheese substitute. I’ve found that it still works nicely in this recipe!
How Do I Cut the Bread Without Making a Mess?
Cutting the bread properly is key to pulling apart the pieces later. Here’s how to do it right:
- Place the round loaf on a cutting board. Use a serrated knife to gently score the bread.
- Make vertical cuts about 1-2 inches apart, then repeat horizontally. Make sure to stop before cutting through the bottom crust.
- Be steady with your hand to keep the loaf intact. This helps keep the stuffing inside when you bake!
Take your time with this step. It can be tricky, but with a little patience, you’ll have perfect cuts for the filling!
Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pull Aparts:
- 1 large round loaf of bread (e.g., sourdough or pull-apart bread)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup crumbled gorgonzola cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (optional)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 20 to 25 minutes to bake. So, overall, set aside about 45 minutes to prepare and enjoy these tasty bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper to make cleanup easy later on. This is a simple step you won’t want to skip!
2. Cut the Bread:
Using a sharp serrated knife, carefully score the bread into a grid pattern. Make cuts about 1 to 2 inches apart both vertically and horizontally. Remember not to cut all the way through the bottom crust—this keeps the bread together. Take your time with this step; it’ll help in pulling apart the pieces later!
3. Mix Up the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, crumbled gorgonzola, chopped bacon (save some for topping), parsley, thyme (if you’re using it), and minced garlic. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
4. Stuff the Bread:
Now it’s time to stuff the bread! Gently fill each cut with the cheese and bacon mixture. It’s perfectly fine if some of it spills over onto the top or sides of the bread. We want maximum cheesiness!
5. Butter Up the Loaf:
Place the stuffed loaf on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the melted butter generously over the entire loaf. This will add a lovely golden color and flavor when baked.
6. Bake:
Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the bread is golden brown on top. The smell will be amazing!
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
Once your Pull Aparts are out of the oven, sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces on top. This adds a nice crunch and extra flavor!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the Pull Aparts to cool for a few minutes before serving them warm. Watch as your guests dive in and pull apart pieces filled with cheesy, bacon goodness!
Enjoy these Bacon Gorgonzola Pull Aparts as a delicious appetizer or party snack that’s sure to impress!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While gorgonzola adds a great tang, you can swap it for blue cheese or feta if you prefer. For a milder flavor, try using just mozzarella or a blend of your favorites!
How Do I Store Leftover Pull Aparts?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed bread the night before and keep it in the fridge, covered tightly. When you’re ready to bake, just drizzle with butter and follow the baking instructions. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
Is There a Vegetarian Option for This Recipe?
Certainly! Simply omit the bacon or substitute it with sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for a delicious vegetarian version. The creamy cheese filling will still make it indulgent and flavorful!
