
Watch this bacon and cheese cob loaf vanish fast every time you set it out at a party. The soft, super cheesy center and warm crusty bread always get folks chatting, laughing, and digging in for more.
The first time I served this, everyone ditched the other snacks and hovered until every bite was gone. Now, it is a must-have at every event and people don’t stop asking for how to make it.
Tasty Ingredients
- Brie (optional): adds rich, gooey flavor; choose ripe camembert or brie for a creamy finish
- French onion soup mix: packs in tasty umami try a spring veggie soup if you want a switch
- Onion: finely chop for even sweetness and balanced flavor
- Pizza cheese blend: cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan help it melt stretchy and smooth hold back a little for a cheesy top layer
- Bacon: use streaky bacon for smokiness or grab double smoked for bold flavor
- Sour cream: tangy and smooth so be sure it’s fresh
- Cream cheese: go with full-fat for lush texture and a creamy base
- Cob loaf: pick a sturdy loaf with a thick crust so it supports the filling perfectly bread insides make the best dippers
- Use the freshest sour cream and go for nice cheeses it really makes a difference
Simple Step-by-Step
- Serve It Up:
- Set the cob loaf on a platter, pile bread dippers all around, maybe some extras if you like. Dig in while hot and scoop right out of the sides.
- Fill and Bake:
- Crank the oven to high. Move toasted bread chunks to a serving bowl. Pour the hot, cheesy filling into the empty cob loaf. Sprinkle with leftover cheese. Bake another ten minutes until bubbling and golden brown.
- Add Cheese Mix-Ins:
- Add in the soup powder, most of your pizza cheese, and brie if you've got it. Stir until everything is thick, glossy, and smooth—takes about two minutes for cheese to melt right.
- Make the Dip Base:
- With the heat low, gently mix in cream cheese and sour cream and keep stirring until you get a silky sauce. Take your time to keep the texture creamy.
- Cook the Bacon and Onion:
- Fry chopped bacon and onion in a pan over medium-high heat. Keep stirring and cooking for three to five minutes until the bacon crisps up and onion softens.
- Toast the Bread:
- Preheat the oven on low. Lay out your cob crust, its lid, and bread pieces on a baking tray. Toast for around ten minutes until just crispy so they don’t fall apart with dipping.
- Prep Your Cob:
- Saw the top inch off your cob loaf, then scoop out the soft middle. Keep the crust whole. Set all the inside bread pieces on a tray for later dunking.

How to Store
- If there’s any left, cover the cob and keep in the fridge (foil over the top works) for up to two days
- To warm up, put it back into a medium oven until cheese gets hot and melts again
- Skip the microwave since that'll make the bread go soggy
Swap These In
- Sub bacon with ham or shredded cooked chicken to shake up the flavors
- Go lighter by swapping ricotta for cream cheese (just know it’s not as rich)
- Leave out bacon and use sauteed mushrooms or spinach to go meat-free
Ways to Serve
- Add crunchy carrot sticks and celery on the side for something fresh
- Serve it with chips for another layer of crunch
- Sprinkle some chives or parsley up top for a pop of green and brightness

Fun Origins
This cob loaf dish is an Aussie classic for get-togethers, turning up at BBQs, Christmas, birthdays, and footy celebrations. Folks started making it because bakery cobs are everywhere and Aussies love sharing hearty food with a pack of mates.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute French onion soup mix?
Yes, you can swap it for spring vegetable mix or mix your own seasonings like dried onion, garlic powder, and a dash of stock powder.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead?
Totally! Mix the filling and prep the bread earlier in the day. When it's time to eat, stuff the loaf and bake it hot.
- → What else can I add to the filling?
You can toss in cooked chicken, crab, spinach, corn, or spice it up with curry powder or paprika.
- → Are there bread alternatives for dipping?
Sure thing! Carrot sticks, crackers, corn chips, or any other crunchy extras work well.
- → How do I keep the cheese dip smooth?
Stick to low heat while melting and stirring gently. Avoid letting it boil to keep it silky and creamy.