These Bacon and Cheese Puff Pastry Bites are the perfect savory snack, appetizer, or side dish. The combination of crispy puff pastry, melted cheese, and smoky bacon makes for a delightful treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just want a quick and delicious bite, these bites are sure to impress!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 8-10
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet (250g) puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- 6 strips of cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tsp dried herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning)
- Optional: Sesame seeds or grated Parmesan for topping
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. - Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface. If it’s not already rectangular, shape it into a rectangle. - Add the Filling:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Distribute the chopped bacon evenly over the cheese. Sprinkle with dried herbs for extra flavor. - Roll or Fold the Pastry:
- Option 1 (Pinwheels): Roll the pastry tightly into a log. Slice into 1-inch rounds and place them flat on the baking sheet.
- Option 2 (Pockets): Fold the pastry in half over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork. Cut small slits on top to release steam.
- Brush with Egg Wash:
Brush the top of each pastry piece with the beaten egg for a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle sesame seeds or Parmesan if desired. - Bake:
Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. - Serve:
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with a dipping sauce, like ranch or BBQ sauce, for extra flavor.
- Serve with a glass of white wine or beer for a delicious appetizer pairing.
- Enjoy with a warm cup of soup for a cozy lunch or dinner.
- Serve as a snack at a party or gathering, and watch them disappear!
Cooking Tips:
- For extra crispiness, brush the edges of the puff pastry with a little olive oil before baking.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add extra veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Make sure to slice the pastry into even pieces for uniform baking.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Bacon adds a savory source of protein.
- Cheese provides calcium and protein.
- Puff pastry, while indulgent, offers a light, flaky texture perfect for snack-sized servings.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy (cheese and butter).
- Contains gluten (puff pastry).
- Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free puff pastry.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx.):
- Calories: 250-300 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage:
- Store leftover puff pastry bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes for the best texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- Perfect for a party, as a snack, or side dish.
- Customizable with different cheeses and herbs.
- Crispy, flaky, and packed with flavor from the bacon and cheese.
Conclusion: These Bacon and Cheese Puff Pastry Bites are a delicious and versatile treat that can be made in no time. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a snack, or preparing an easy appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit. Their crisp exterior and savory filling make them irresistible. Give them a try next time you need something tasty and satisfying!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make these puff pastry bites ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare them ahead of time, refrigerate, and bake them just before serving.
- Can I freeze these bites?
- Absolutely! Freeze them before baking. When ready to bake, just pop them in the oven from frozen and add a few extra minutes of baking time.
- Can I use a different type of cheese?
- Yes, you can use any cheese you like. Mozzarella, gouda, or even a sharp cheddar work great.
- Can I make these bites vegetarian?
- Yes, just omit the bacon and substitute with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes.
- How can I make them spicier?
- Add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
- Yes, pre-cooked bacon works just as well. Just chop it up and add it to the pastry.
- What kind of puff pastry should I use?
- You can use store-bought puff pastry, either regular or light (for a lower-calorie option).
- How do I prevent the filling from spilling out while baking?
- Be sure to press the edges of the pastry tightly when sealing to keep the filling secure.
- Can I make these without cheese?
- Yes, you can make them without cheese, just increase the amount of bacon or add extra vegetables.
- How do I know when the puff pastry is done?
- The puff pastry should be golden brown and puffy. If it’s still pale, give it a few more minutes in the oven.