Imagine sinking your teeth into a crispy, golden-brown slice of bread loaded with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and a tantalizing ranch dressing that will make your mouth water instantly. This Bacon Ranch Cheesy Bread is not just a side dish – it's a flavor-packed experience that transforms an ordinary loaf into a crowd-pleasing sensation that will have everyone begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Slice the French bread lengthwise horizontally, creating two equal halves. Place the bread cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, evenly spread ranch dressing across both halves of the bread, covering the entire surface to the edges.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the ranch dressing, ensuring even coverage.
- Distribute the crumbled bacon pieces evenly across the cheese-covered bread.
- Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top of the bacon and cheese for added flavor and color.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and the bread edges are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to set slightly.
- Slice the bread into 1-2 inch wide pieces and serve warm as an appetizer or side dish.
Tips
- Choose a high-quality French bread with a sturdy crust to ensure your cheesy bread holds up during baking.
- For extra crispiness, lightly toast the bread before adding toppings.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and richer flavor.
- Cook your bacon until it's crisp to provide a perfect crunch in every bite.
- For a gourmet twist, try mixing different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar and mozzarella.
- Watch the bread closely during the last 5 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- Let the bread rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set and make cutting easier.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 25mg
