This Bacon and Cheese Puff Pastry is a quick and delicious appetizer or snack that’s perfect for parties, brunches, or as a savory treat any time of day. The buttery, flaky layers of puff pastry are filled with crispy bacon and gooey cheese, making each bite irresistibly flavorful. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dish in no time!
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
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 side of marinara or ranch dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for a creamy touch.
- Serve as a side dish alongside scrambled eggs for brunch.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine or your favorite beverage.
Cooking Tips
- Ensure the puff pastry is cold before baking to achieve the best puff and flakiness.
- Cook the bacon until crisp and drain excess fat to prevent sogginess.
- Avoid overloading the pastry with filling to prevent leakage during baking.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the pastry for clean, even pieces.
- Experiment with additional fillings like caramelized onions, spinach, or mushrooms for variety.
Nutritional Benefits
- Protein-Rich: Thanks to the bacon and cheese, this dish provides a good amount of protein.
- Calcium Boost: The cheese adds a healthy dose of calcium for bone health.
- Quick Energy: Puff pastry is high in carbohydrates, making it a great energy-boosting snack.
Dietary Information
- Contains gluten, dairy, and meat (bacon).
- To make it vegetarian, substitute bacon with sautéed vegetables or plant-based bacon.
- Not suitable for those with egg or dairy allergies without modifications.
Nutritional Facts (Per Piece)
- Calories: 190
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftover pastries in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispness.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked pastries for up to 1 month. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Perfectly crispy and cheesy with a smoky bacon flavor.
- Versatile—customize the filling to your liking.
- Great for entertaining or meal-prepping ahead of time.
- A crowd-pleasing treat that’s always a hit at gatherings.
Conclusion
Bacon and Cheese Puff Pastry is a simple yet indulgent recipe that’s guaranteed to impress. The combination of flaky pastry, melted cheese, and savory bacon makes for a delightful snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, this recipe delivers all the flavor with minimal effort. Make it today and watch it disappear in no time!