Ham and Cheese Bread Pot Fondue

This easy-do fondue is perfect for a crowd: No stirring or watching is require. the fondue is wrapped in its own bread bowl and bakes in the oven untended.

Recipe Ingredients:

1 round, firm loaf of bread (about 8 to 10-inches in diameter, about 1 1/2 pounds)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
2 (3-ounce each) packages cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups sour cream
2 cups diced ham
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1 (3-ounce) can chopped green chilies, drained and chopped
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon butter, melted

Cooking Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350°F (175°C).
   
2. Slice off top of bread; reserve top. Hollow out inside with small paring knife, leaving 1/2-inch shell Cut removed bread into 1-inch cubes (there will be 3 to 4 cups); reserve for toasting.
   
3. Combine cheddar, cream cheese and sour cream in large bowl; stir in ham, green onion, chilies and Worcestershire. Spoon cheese filling into bread shell; replace top of bread. Tightly wrap loaf with several layers of heavy-duty aluminum foil; set on cookie sheet. Bake for 1 hour, 10 minutes until cheese filling is melted and heated through.
   
4. Meanwhile, in large bowl toss together bread cubes, oil and melted butter. Arrange on cookie sheet; bake at 350°F (175°C), turning occasionally, for 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from oven and reserve to serve with fondue.
   
5. Remove bread pot from oven; unwrap; transfer to platter. Remove top of bread. Stir filling before serving.
   
6. Serve with toasted bread cubes and assorted vegetables as dippers for fondue.
   

Makes 10 appetizer servings.

Recipe provided courtesy of Pork, Be Inspired®.