This Bacon and Cheese Puff Pastry is a flaky, buttery delight filled with crispy bacon and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a party appetizer, it’s an easy and crowd-pleasing recipe that’s ready in no time.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Puff Pastry:
- Roll out the puff pastry slightly on a floured surface to even the thickness.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the entire pastry sheet.
- Spread the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese, distributing evenly.
- Roll and Slice:
- Starting from one edge, tightly roll the pastry into a log.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the roll into 1-inch pieces.
- Assemble:
- Place the slices cut-side up on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle with black pepper and paprika, if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and puffed.
- Serve:
- Let the pastries cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm as a savory breakfast treat.
- Pair with a side of scrambled eggs or fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- Offer as a party appetizer alongside a dipping sauce like ranch or marinara.
- Add to a charcuterie board for a touch of flaky indulgence.
- Enjoy with a bowl of creamy soup for a comforting lunch.
Cooking Tips:
- Use pre-cooked bacon to save time, or fry it to your preferred crispiness.
- For extra flavor, sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder or Italian seasoning over the filling.
- Keep the puff pastry chilled before baking for the best puff.
- If the rolls lose shape while cutting, chill the log for 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutritional Benefits:
- A protein-rich treat from bacon and cheese.
- Puff pastry adds an indulgent buttery texture.
Dietary Information:
- Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs.
- Not suitable for vegetarians (unless substituting bacon with a vegetarian alternative).
Nutritional Facts (Per Roll, based on 12 rolls):
- Calories: ~150
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
- Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 1 month; bake directly from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to make with minimal ingredients.
- Perfectly flaky pastry with a savory, cheesy filling.
- Versatile as a breakfast, snack, or party appetizer.
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Conclusion:
Bacon and Cheese Puff Pastry is a quick, versatile recipe that’s as delicious as it is easy to make. The combination of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and flaky pastry makes this treat irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet breakfast, this recipe is sure to impress.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use store-bought puff pastry?
Yes, frozen puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe. - What cheeses work best for this recipe?
Cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or a mix of cheeses all work well. - Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Absolutely! Try adding caramelized onions, spinach, or diced bell peppers. - Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, replace bacon with plant-based alternatives or skip it entirely. - How do I prevent the rolls from sticking to the baking sheet?
Use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. - What can I use instead of egg wash?
Use milk or cream for a similar golden finish. - Can I freeze the rolls?
Yes, freeze unbaked rolls and bake directly from frozen. - How do I make the pastry extra crispy?
Bake on a higher rack in the oven for the last 5 minutes. - What dipping sauces pair well with these rolls?
Ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce are great options. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate for up to 12 hours before baking.