Spidini Bread
Spidini Bread features crispy bacon, melted Swiss cheese, and flavorful mustard-poppy seed butter layered inside crusty French bread, perfect for sharing at gatherings or casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut each loaf of French bread into 1-inch thick slices, stopping about 1 inch from the bottom to keep the loaf intact.
- Sauté diced onion in margarine until translucent.
- Mix prepared mustard and poppy seed into the butter and sautéed onion.
- Spoon the butter mixture into the spaces between the bread slices.
- Insert sliced Swiss cheese between the slices of bread.
- Place sliced bacon on top of the assembled bread.
- Wrap the bread in foil securely.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 15 minutes or until the bacon is cooked and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using garlic powder or Italian herbs in the butter mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the margarine with olive oil. Swiss cheese can be swapped for cheddar or provolone if desired. To enhance the dish, add diced bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions during sautéing.
Serving Suggestions
This spidini bread makes a fantastic appetizer or side dish, especially alongside soups or salads. It pairs beautifully with the Crunchy Meatballs for a more hearty meal. Serve on a platter and provide toothpicks for easy sharing at gatherings or parties.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the spidini in foil and bake at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method keeps the bread crusty while ensuring the cheese remains melted.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spidini Bread contains roughly 128 calories, with 5g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of calcium (17% of the Daily Value), protein (11% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value).
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 spidini bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the bread up to the wrapping stage in advance. Simply assemble the bread, wrap it in foil, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use a meat-free cheese alternative. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to enhance the flavors while keeping it plant-based.
What can I serve with spidini bread?
Spidini bread pairs well with a variety of dishes. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a fresh garden salad or tomato soup. It also complements other American recipes, making it a versatile choice for any gathering.
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).