Cheesy Spinach & Artichoke Pull-Apart Bread
 Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1 large round or oval crusty artisan loaf (sourdough or Italian bread)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Filling
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chopped spinach (fresh or thawed frozen, well-drained)
- 1 cup chopped canned artichoke hearts, drained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ÂĽ teaspoon black pepper
- ÂĽ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
 Nut Information
This recipe contains no nuts by default.
Potential Allergens
- Milk (cream cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, butter)
- Wheat/Gluten (bread)
Nut-Free
âś” Naturally nut-free if all ingredients are processed in nut-free facilities.
Optional Nut Additions
If desired, you can add:
- Toasted pine nuts
- Chopped walnuts
- Chopped pecans
These are optional and will change the texture and flavor.
 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Using a serrated knife, cut the bread into 1-inch cubes without cutting through the bottom so the loaf stays intact.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl combine:
- Cream cheese
- Mozzarella
- Parmesan
- Spinach
- Artichokes
- Garlic
- Italian seasoning
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
Mix until well blended.
Step 3: Fill the Bread
Carefully spread the cheese mixture into every cut of the bread.
Push filling deep between the cubes.
Step 4: Butter Topping
Mix together:
- Melted butter
- Olive oil
Brush generously over the loaf.
Sprinkle extra mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Step 5: Bake
Wrap loosely with foil.
Bake for 20 minutes.
Remove foil.
Bake another 15–20 minutes, or until:
- Cheese is bubbling
- Bread is golden brown
- Filling is hot and creamy
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with parsley.
Serve immediately while the cheese is stretchy and melted.
 Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
 Servings
8–10 people
 Storage
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
- Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freezing is possible, but the texture of the creamy filling may change slightly after thawing.
 Tips
- Drain spinach and artichokes well to avoid a watery filling.
- Freshly grate the cheese for smoother melting.
- A crusty artisan loaf holds the filling best.
- Add cooked bacon or shredded chicken for a heartier version.
- For extra browning, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
 Approximate Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 640 mg
Nutrition values are estimates and will vary depending on the bread, cheese, and portion size.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze out as much liquid as possible before mixing.
Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the loaf, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.
Q: What bread works best?
A crusty sourdough, Italian, or artisan loaf works best because it holds the filling without becoming soggy.
Q: Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely. Monterey Jack, provolone, fontina, Gruyère, or white cheddar are all excellent alternatives or additions.
Q: How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Drain the vegetables thoroughly and avoid overfilling with very wet ingredients.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. This recipe is already vegetarian if you use cheeses made without animal rennet, if that is important for your diet.
Q: Can I add meat?
Yes. Cooked bacon, shredded chicken, diced ham, or crumbled sausage all pair well with the filling.
