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French Onion Dip Cob Loaf Recipe

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4.1 from 51 reviews

This French Onion Dip Cob Loaf is a delightful appetizer featuring a crusty cob loaf filled with a creamy, savory blend of caramelized onions, garlic, cream cheese, sour cream, and cheeses. Perfect for parties or casual gatherings, it combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with a cheesy dip, all baked inside a fresh bread bowl for dipping.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Bread Bowl and Filling

  • 1 cob loaf
  • 1 bulb garlic
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 brown onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 9 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 10 oz sour cream
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated, plus extra for sprinkling
  • 1/2 cup chives, finely sliced, plus extra to serve
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cob loaf: Using a sharp knife, carefully cut the top off the cob loaf and hollow out the center, removing the soft bread to create a bowl. Keep the removed bread aside for another use or serving.
  2. Caramelize the onions: Peel and finely slice the brown onions. Peel and crush the garlic cloves from the bulb. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add the garlic and onions, and cook gently until softened and golden, about 15-20 minutes. Stir in the brown sugar and balsamic vinegar. Continue to cook for another 5 minutes until the onions are deeply caramelized. Remove from heat and discard the garlic bulb if whole cloves were used.
  3. Mix the dip base: In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, grated mozzarella, grated parmesan, and the finely sliced chives. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine onions with dip: Fold the caramelized onions into the cheese mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Fill the bread bowl: Spoon the onion and cheese dip mixture into the hollowed cob loaf, pressing it down gently to fill completely. Sprinkle extra mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top for a golden crust.
  6. Bake the dip: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the filled cob loaf on a baking tray and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese topping is melted and bubbly with a light golden crust.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle extra finely sliced chives on top, and serve warm with the cut-off cob bread pieces or crackers for dipping.

Notes

  • The cob loaf acts as both a vessel and a bread to dip, so pick a fresh crusty loaf.
  • You can prepare caramelized onions ahead of time and refrigerate to save time on the day.
  • For a stronger onion flavor, use red onions or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce if desired.
  • This dip is best served warm; reheat gently if needed before serving.
  • If preferred, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • Author: Madelynn
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian