Tootie Bread
Tootie Bread is a savory, cheesy baked bread filled with Swiss cheese and topped with a flavorful onion and mustard spread, topped with crispy bacon for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Slice the French bread into 16 slices, not cutting all the way through to the bottom.
- Cut Swiss cheese diagonally into halves and place the cheese between the slices of bread.
- Place the bread on a foil-covered baking sheet.
- Mix softened margarine, chopped onion, prepared mustard, and poppy seeds.
- Spread the mixture over the top and sides of the bread.
- Sprinkle the crumbled fried bacon over the top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden and heated through.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting the Swiss cheese with Gruyère or adding a layer of cream cheese between the bread slices. If you prefer a spicier kick, try using Dijon mustard instead of prepared mustard. To enhance the flavor, sauté the onions before mixing them into the margarine mixture. This Tootie Bread is perfect for gatherings, so make sure to prepare extra for guests.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tootie Bread as a savory appetizer or side dish alongside a hearty soup like Ham And Potato Soup. It pairs wonderfully with salads or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For a fun twist, cut the bread into smaller portions and serve it at parties as finger food. This recipe is an excellent addition to any brunch spread or picnic.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tootie Bread can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the bread in aluminum foil and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This method helps retain the bread's crispiness and ensures the cheese melts properly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tootie Bread contains roughly 186 calories, with 8g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (14% 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 use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any crusty bread such as sourdough or ciabatta. Just ensure it's sturdy enough to hold the toppings without becoming soggy. Adjust baking time slightly if using a different bread type to avoid over-baking.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bread with the cheese and toppings a day ahead, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon and consider adding extra vegetables like sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor. You can also use plant-based cheese alternatives to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
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).