Every time I make this Cheesy Ham Pull-Apart Bread, it reminds me of carefree afternoons spent with my family during cozy game day gatherings. The delightful aroma fills my kitchen, wrapping around me like a warm hug, taking me back to those jovial moments when we would huddle together, sharing laughter and food. The excitement of pulling apart the soft, cheesy layers of bread always brings an infectious energy to our gatherings, creating memories I cherish deeply. As you take your first bite, you’ll see why this dish is so loved. The gooey cheese, smoky ham, and buttery bread blend so perfectly together that I know you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort I do!
How to Make Cheesy Ham Pull-Apart Bread
Ingredients:
Let’s gather everything we need to bring this delicious dish to life! Here’s what you’ll require:
- 1 large round sourdough bread loaf: This is the star of the show! A round loaf gives it that beautiful presentation and texture.
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, grated: The sharpness of cheddar adds a delightful zing and richness.
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated: For that dreamy, stretchy cheese pull we all adore!
- 1/2 pound ham, diced: Brings in a subtle smokiness and saltiness that complements the cheese.
- 1/2 cup butter, melted: Adds a luscious richness and helps all the flavors mingle together beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Because I believe garlic makes everything better!
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped: A pop of color and a fresh flavor that brightens the dish beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs ties everything together with its warm and fragrant notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just a hint of spice to wake up your taste buds!
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Looks pretty and adds a nice fresh finish!
- Extra grated cheese for topping: Because you can never have too much cheese!
- Black pepper to taste: A sprinkle to bring all the flavors forward.
Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the bread smell and taste amazing!
Cooking Steps
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F. Trust me, this is key for perfectly baked pull-apart bread.
2. Prepare the Bread:
Take your beautiful sourdough loaf and place it on a cutting board. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the bread in a crosshatch pattern. Make sure you don’t cut all the way through; you want the bread to hold its shape!
3. Mix the Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. This combination is a game changer! The smell alone is enough to have everyone in your house begging to know what’s cooking.
4. Brush the Butter Mixture:
Now, grab a pastry brush (or just use the back of a spoon) and gently brush that amazing butter mixture between all the cuts in the bread. Make sure every nook and cranny gets some love!
5. Prepare the Cheese and Ham Mixture:
In a separate bowl, mix together your grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Add the diced ham to this cheesy goodness and stir it up to combine everything.
6. Stuff the Bread:
Take generous handfuls of that cheesy-ham mixture and stuff it between the cuts in your sourdough loaf. Don’t be shy! Pile it high because nobody likes a sparse pull-apart bread.
7. Pour Any Remaining Butter Mixture:
If there’s any leftover butter mixture, pour it over the stuffed bread, letting it seep into those cracks. Then, sprinkle some extra cheese on top for good measure.
8. Wrap the Loaf in Foil:
Grab some aluminum foil and wrap your loaf securely. This helps to create steam and ensures your bread stays moist.
9. Bake:
Place the wrapped loaf in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. After that time, unwrap the foil and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes. You want that top to turn golden and melty!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Once your kitchen is filled with the heavenly aroma of baked bread, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley. It’s time to dig in!
Why I Love Making This Dish
This Cheesy Ham Pull-Apart Bread holds a special place in my heart. It’s not just a dish; it’s a bridge connecting moments with my loved ones. I remember the first time I made it for my grandchildren. Their eyes lit up with joy, and soon, laughter filled our home as they eagerly pulled apart each cheesy piece. It’s moments like that that make cooking so meaningful!
What You’ll Need
For this recipe, you won’t need any fancy gadgets! Just your standard kitchen tools: a sharp knife, a pastry brush, a mixing bowl, and, of course, your trusty oven.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Don’t be afraid to customize! If you have leftover veggies, toss them in alongside the cheese and ham mixture.
- Make it ahead of time! You can prepare the loaf, wrap it up in foil, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to your baking time.
- For a little crunch, finish the last few minutes of baking under the broiler for a perfectly crispy top—just keep an eye on it!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
When I serve this dish, I love pairing it with a fresh garden salad, drizzled with a simple vinaigrette. It balances the richness of the bread beautifully. If you’re in the mood, add a side of homemade ranch dressing or even a warm spinach dip for dipping! You can also serve it alongside a steaming bowl of tomato soup—the classic comfort food combo.
Leftovers
If, by chance, you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, just pop it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes, and it’ll be as good as new! You could also use a microwave, but I prefer the oven for that lovely crispy texture.
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of bread?
You certainly can! While sourdough brings a delightful tang, I’ve had great results with round Italian or even a basic white loaf. Just remember to adjust your cutting technique based on the type of bread you choose.
What if I don’t have ham?
If you don’t have diced ham on hand, feel free to use any other cooked meat you enjoy, such as bacon or turkey. Just make sure to chop it into small pieces for easy stuffing!
Is it okay to freeze this dish?
Absolutely! You can freeze it before baking. Just wrap tightly and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed.
Can I skip the garlic?
You can, but I really think the garlic adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re avoiding it, maybe try adding some sautéed onions for a different twist!
Do I have to use butter?
Butter is key for richness, but if you’re looking for a lighter version, you can substitute with olive oil. Just remember it will alter the flavor slightly!
This dish has become a favorite in my house, and I’m so excited for you to try it. It’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in with your loved ones. I know you’ll love it as much as I do! Let me know how it turns out, and if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time. Happy cooking!
Cheesy Ham Pull-Apart Bread
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large loaf large round sourdough bread loaf This is the star of the show!
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese, grated Adds a delightful zing and richness.
- 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, grated For that dreamy, stretchy cheese pull.
- 0.5 pound ham, diced Brings in a subtle smokiness and saltiness.
- 0.5 cup butter, melted Adds richness and helps flavors blend.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Garlic makes everything better!
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped Adds color and freshness.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Blends of herbs for warmth.
- 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes A hint of spice.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Adds a fresh finish.
- to taste black pepper To bring all flavors forward.
- extra grated cheese for topping Because you can never have too much cheese.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Place the sourdough loaf on a cutting board and cut it in a crosshatch pattern without cutting all the way through.
- In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.
- Brush the butter mixture between all the cuts in the bread.
- In a separate bowl, mix together grated cheddar and mozzarella cheeses with the diced ham.
- Stuff the cheesy-ham mixture between the cuts in the sourdough loaf.
- Pour any remaining butter mixture over the stuffed bread and sprinkle with extra cheese.
- Wrap the loaf in aluminum foil.
Baking
- Bake the wrapped loaf in the oven for 15 minutes.
- Unwrap the loaf and continue to bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and melty.
Serving
- Remove from the oven, let cool for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve and enjoy!