Laramie Loaf
A cheesy, savory loaf stuffed with cheddar, cream cheese, olives, and topped with fresh tomatoes and crispy bacon—perfect for parties or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the French bread into top and bottom halves.
- Combine shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped olives, mayonnaise, sliced green onions, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce to make the filling mixture.
- Spread half of the mixture evenly on each half of the bread loaf.
- Place 5 tomato slices on each half of the bread.
- Crisp-cook the bacon slices and halve them, then arrange crisscrossed atop the tomatoes.
- Wrap each loaf loosely in foil, leaving the top open, and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try adding cooked, crumbled sausage or swapping out the cheddar for pepper jack cheese for some heat. You can also use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter option. Ensure the cream cheese is well-softened to blend smoothly into the filling mixture. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add more olives or roasted red peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Laramie Loaf warm, cut into slices for easy sharing. It pairs wonderfully with a light salad or vegetable sticks for a complete meal. For a hearty addition, consider serving it alongside a bowl of soup or alongside barbecue dishes like Smoked Ham Cheese Ball for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the loaf in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through, ensuring the cheese melts again for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Laramie Loaf contains roughly 174 calories, with 7g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (33% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium.
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 Laramie Loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the loaf a few hours in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
What can I substitute for olives in this recipe?
If you're not a fan of olives, you can substitute them with chopped artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor profile. Both options will maintain the texture and add a unique twist to the dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make the Laramie Loaf gluten-free, use a gluten-free French bread or baguette. Check the labels on your other ingredients, like mustard and Worcestershire sauce, to ensure they are also gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with dietary restrictions.
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).