Home-Style Baked Ham and Cheese Bread Bowl
- Preparing Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: -
- Served Person: 6
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 (8 ounce) package shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, room temperature
- 1 (16 ounce) loaf round bread
- 1 1/2 cups cubed fully cooked ham
- 1 loaf italian bread, sliced into bite-size cubes
- Carbohydrate 95.5
- Cholesterol 99
- Fat 38.2
- Protein 34.9
- Sodium 1871
- Calories 873 calories;
A Simple Comfort Food: My Ham and Cheese Bread Bowl Recipe
As a busy working mom, finding time for elaborate cooking can be a real challenge. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework help, and the never-ending to-do list. But that doesn't mean I have to sacrifice delicious, comforting meals. This ham and cheese bread bowl recipe is my go-to when I crave something warm, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. It's the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and hearty bread, a true crowd-pleaser that always leaves my family wanting more. The best part? It's so adaptable! You can swap the ham for leftover chicken or roast beef, experiment with different cheeses, or add your favorite veggies to create your own unique twist.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It requires minimal prep time and uses readily available ingredients. The aroma of baking bread and melting cheese fills the kitchen, creating a wonderfully inviting atmosphere. It's the kind of dish that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort, reminding me of cozy evenings spent with loved ones. And the best part? The cleanup is a breeze! That's a huge win in my book. I often double the recipe for leftovers, knowing that a reheated bread bowl is just as delightful the next day. It's become a staple in our weekly meal rotation, a testament to its deliciousness and convenience.
This recipe isn't just for busy weeknights; it's also perfect for casual gatherings or potlucks. The presentation is impressive, and the taste is even better. It's a dish that consistently receives rave reviews, and I often find myself sharing the recipe with friends and family who are equally charmed by its simplicity and deliciousness. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience, a little slice of comfort in a sometimes hectic world. Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this recipe holds a special place in my heart, representing cherished moments of togetherness around the dinner table. The simple act of sharing this warm, cheesy bread bowl brings smiles and laughter, and that’s priceless.
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture.
- Use different types of ham, such as honey-glazed or smoked ham, for a unique flavor profile.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers to the cheese mixture for extra vegetables.
- Substitute cream cheese with a different type of cheese, such as ricotta or Boursin, for a unique flavor.
- Serve with a side salad or soup for a complete meal.
- Prepare the bread bowl and cheese mixture ahead of time and assemble just before baking.
I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Let me know how it turns out!
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Cut a 1-inch thick slice from the top of round bread loaf; hollow out the loaf to use as a bread bowl. Slice the cut-off top of the loaf into cubes for dipping.
- Combine cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, ham, green onion, and chives in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in microwave on high power for about 15 seconds to warm ingredients for easier stirring.
- Spoon cheese mixture into prepared bread bowl; place on a baking sheet.
- Bake filled bread bowl in the preheated oven, stirring occasionally, until bread bowl is toasted and dip is bubbling, about 30 minutes. Serve with Italian bread cubes for dipping.
