Baked Ham And Cheese Spread
Creamy, savory baked ham and cheese spread with a hint of mustard and garlic, perfect for serving warm with bread cubes or crackers at gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the top out of the loaf of bread and remove the insides, leaving about a 1/2 inch thick wall.
- Combine chopped ham, diced onion, cream cheese, shredded Cheddar cheese, dry mustard, and garlic powder.
- Fill the hollowed-out loaf of bread with the mixture.
- Place the filled loaf into a 250°F oven and bake for about 1 hour.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with paprika.
- Serve warm with bread cubes and/or crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some diced bell peppers or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the ham and cheese mixture. If you're short on time, pre-packaged diced ham works well as a substitute for chopped ham. You can also use different cheese varieties, like Monterey Jack or Gouda, for a unique twist. To make it healthier, opt for reduced-fat cream cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked ham and cheese spread warm, accompanied by toasted bread cubes or an assortment of crackers. For a complete meal, pair it with a fresh salad, like Broccoli Fruit Salad, to balance the richness. This dish is great for parties or game day gatherings, offering a deliciously creamy dip that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the spread in an oven-safe dish and warm it at 250°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual servings in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Ham And Cheese Spread contains roughly 285 calories, with 11g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just hollow out the bread loaf and fill it right before you're ready to bake, ensuring it stays fresh. This makes it perfect for meal prepping or entertaining without last-minute stress.
What bread types work best for this recipe?
Rye, pumpernickel, or Italian bread are all excellent choices for this baked ham and cheese spread. Rye adds a nice earthy flavor, while pumpernickel offers a richer taste. Italian bread provides a softer texture, making it easier to scoop out. Choose based on your preference for flavor and texture.
Can I freeze the baked ham and cheese spread?
Freezing is not recommended after baking, as it may affect the texture of the cream cheese and bread. However, you can freeze the filling separately before baking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then assemble and bake as directed for a fresh taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).