Introduction:
Cheesy Bacon Stuffed Garlic Bread Wreath is a savory, indulgent appetizer that is sure to impress your guests at any gathering. The soft and buttery garlic bread is hollowed out and filled with a delicious mixture of melted cheese and crispy bacon, then shaped into a festive wreath. Perfect for holidays, parties, or even a cozy family dinner, this dish combines the comforting flavors of garlic, cheese, and bacon in every bite. The best part? It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
1 loaf of refrigerated pizza dough or garlic bread dough (or homemade dough)
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese (softened)
2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp dried parsley
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough or garlic bread dough onto a lightly floured surface. Using a rolling pin, shape it into a rectangle or circle that’s large enough to form a wreath when coiled.
Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and softened cream cheese. Add the garlic powder, parsley, crushed red pepper flakes, and salt and pepper. Stir the mixture until it’s well combined.
Assemble the Wreath: Brush the dough with melted butter. Spread the cheese and bacon filling evenly across the dough, leaving about an inch of space at the edges. Roll the dough tightly into a log, ensuring the filling stays inside.
Shape the Wreath: Carefully cut the dough into individual slices, each about 1 inch thick. Arrange the slices in a circle on a baking sheet, forming a wreath shape, with the edges of the dough slices facing outward.
Egg Wash and Bake: Whisk the egg and brush it over the top of the wreath to give it a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Description: This Cheesy Bacon Stuffed Garlic Bread Wreath is an irresistible appetizer with a perfect balance of savory, cheesy, and crispy flavors. The soft, buttery dough is filled with a creamy cheese and bacon mixture, baked to a golden perfection, and shaped into a fun and festive wreath. The cheesy filling oozes out as you pull apart each slice, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday party or a casual get-together, it’s sure to be a hit.
Tips:
For extra flavor, try adding some finely chopped onions or green onions to the filling.
If you like your wreath extra crispy, brush the dough with a little more melted butter before baking.
You can substitute the bacon with sausage or even pepperoni for a different twist.
Use a mix of different cheeses like parmesan or provolone for more depth of flavor.
If you prefer a less garlicky flavor, reduce the amount of garlic powder in the dough and filling.
Make sure to serve immediately for the best taste and texture when the cheese is melty!
Variations:
Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
Spicy: Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese to the filling for a spicy kick.
Herbed: Mix in some fresh chopped herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the cheese mixture for extra flavor.
Sweet and Savory: Try adding a tablespoon of honey to the filling for a sweet and savory flavor combination.
Corrections:
Make sure your dough is rolled out thin enough to ensure it bakes evenly and crisps up without becoming doughy in the center.
If you’re using homemade dough, make sure it’s fully rested and proofed before assembling the wreath to achieve the best texture.
Enjoy! Now you’re ready to indulge in this mouthwatering Cheesy Bacon Stuffed Garlic Bread Wreath! It’s the perfect combination of cheesy, bacon-filled, garlicky goodness, all wrapped up in a soft, buttery wreath shape. Enjoy every bite as a snack, appetizer, or part of a delicious meal. Perfect for any celebration or just a casual night in!