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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.

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