Name: Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread Boats
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 small baguettes or sub rolls; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; Salt and pepper to taste

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Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread Boats are an indulgent and satisfying appetizer made from crusty bread filled with a rich, creamy blend of cheeses, crispy bacon, and garlic butter. Perfectly toasted on the outside with a gooey, savory filling, these bread boats are ideal for parties, game nights, or as a decadent side dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, savory flavor: The combination of bacon, garlic, and melted cheese creates a deeply satisfying taste in every bite.
Crispy and creamy contrast: A crusty exterior holds a smooth, creamy filling, offering perfect textural balance.
Crowd-pleaser: These boats are excellent for sharing at gatherings, served sliced into easy-to-handle pieces.
Customizable: You can vary the fillings to include different cheeses, vegetables, or meats, tailoring the recipe to your preferences.
Simple preparation: Despite their gourmet appearance, they require only basic ingredients and are ready in under 30 minutes.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crusty baguettes or sub rolls, halved and hollowed out
Cream cheese, softened
Shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
Cooked bacon, chopped
Garlic cloves, minced or crushed
Butter, melted
Chives or green onions, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper
Optional: grated Parmesan, red pepper flakes, or fresh herbs for garnish

directions

Prepare the bread: Slice the baguettes or rolls lengthwise and carefully hollow out some of the interior to create space for the filling. Avoid puncturing the bottom.
Make the filling: In a bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, chopped cooked bacon, garlic, melted butter, salt, pepper, and herbs. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
Fill the boats: Spoon the cheese mixture into the bread cavities, pressing gently to fill completely. Top with extra shredded cheese or bacon if desired.
Bake: Place the filled bread boats on a lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden and crispy.
Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh chives or extra Parmesan. Slice into portions and serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes approximately 6 to 8 servings, depending on loaf size and cut portions.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or spinach.
Different cheeses: Use Gouda, Swiss, Monterey Jack, or blue cheese for flavor variety.
Mini versions: Use small dinner rolls or baguette slices to make bite-sized individual servings for appetizers.
Breakfast style: Add scrambled eggs and cooked sausage or ham for a hearty brunch option.

storage/reheating

Storage: Wrap leftovers tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Bread boats can be frozen before baking. Prepare and wrap individually in foil, freeze, then bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to cooking time.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 175°C (350°F) until heated through, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread?

Yes, but crusty baguettes or sturdy sub rolls work best to hold the filling without becoming soggy.

How do I make it less rich?

You can use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of bacon or cheese without compromising flavor.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes—assemble the boats and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. This makes them ideal for entertaining.

What other toppings can I add?

Try adding caramelized onions, diced bell peppers, olives, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

How can I make them bite-sized for parties?

Use small rolls or cut baguettes into short segments, then hollow and fill each piece individually.

Are these good for brunch?

Absolutely. Add scrambled eggs and herbs to the cheese mixture to transform them into a savory breakfast dish.

How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?

Avoid overloading with wet ingredients, and bake until the bread is crisp on the edges.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes. Substitute ½ teaspoon garlic powder for each clove of garlic.

What can I serve with these bread boats?

They pair well with soups, salads, or as an appetizer for a pasta or grilled meat dish.

Can I make them on the grill?

Yes. Wrap the filled boats in foil and grill over indirect heat for 10–15 minutes until hot and melty.

Conclusion

Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread Boats are a luxurious yet easy-to-make treat that combines everything you love about comfort food—cheese, garlic, bacon, and bread. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply looking for a satisfying snack, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Customizable and oven-ready in minutes, it’s a guaranteed favorite for any occasion.

Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread Boats

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Cheesy Bacon Garlic Bread Boats are indulgent, savory treats made with crusty bread filled with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and garlicky butter, perfect for parties or game day snacks.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Ingredients

Scale

2 small baguettes or sub rolls
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cut a deep V-shape into the tops of the baguettes and remove the center bread to create a hollow boat. Be careful not to cut through the bottom.
In a bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Brush the inside of the bread boats with the garlic butter mixture.
In another bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar, and crumbled bacon.
Stuff the cheese and bacon mixture evenly into the bread boats.
Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil.
Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is crisp.
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then slice and serve warm.