These savory puff pastry bites are a perfect snack or appetizer, combining the rich flavors of bacon, cheese, and garlic in a crispy puff pastry shell. With a creamy, tangy filling and a touch of Parmesan for extra flavor, these bites are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or family meal. Whether served at a party or as an afternoon snack, they’re easy to make and absolutely delicious.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: Snack/Appetizer
Ingredients
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Puff pastry: 1 sheet (approx. 250 g)
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Flour: For dusting
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Bacon: 100 g (3.5 oz), cooked and crumbled
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Cheese: 100 g (3.5 oz), shredded (Cheddar or mozzarella)
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Ketchup: 2 tbsp
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Mayonnaise: 2 tbsp
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Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp, grated
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Dried garlic: 1 tsp
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Leek: 1 small, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Puff Pastry
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly dust your work surface with flour and roll out the puff pastry sheet to smooth it out. If the puff pastry is frozen, make sure it is thawed before use. -
Make the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, shredded cheese, mayonnaise, ketchup, grated Parmesan, dried garlic, and finely chopped leek. Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated. You’ll get a creamy, cheesy mixture with a nice balance of flavors from the bacon and garlic. -
Assemble the Bites
Cut the puff pastry into small squares or rectangles, depending on the size you prefer for your bites. Spoon a generous amount of the filling onto the center of each pastry square. -
Fold the Pastry
Fold the corners of the puff pastry over the filling to create a pocket or a little bundle. You can also fold them into triangles or any shape that works best for you. Press the edges together lightly to seal them. -
Bake the Bites
Place the filled puff pastry bites onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and puffed up. -
Serve
Once the bites are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm as a snack or appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces or a side salad.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
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Calories: 220
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Protein: 9 g
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Fat: 15 g
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Carbohydrates: 15 g
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Fiber: 1 g
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Sugar: 2 g
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Sodium: 400 mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Puff pastry, a classic in many European cuisines, is known for its light and flaky texture, making it an ideal base for both savory and sweet dishes. While the origins of puff pastry date back to France, it has been widely adopted around the world, particularly in appetizers and snacks. This recipe draws inspiration from the love of savory cheese and bacon combinations, which are a popular choice for snacks and appetizers across many cultures. The addition of leek and garlic adds a savory depth, making these bites even more irresistible.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, these puff pastry bites are the perfect last-minute snack or appetizer.
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Flavor-packed: The combination of bacon, cheese, and garlic creates a rich, savory filling that everyone will love.
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Versatile: You can customize the filling with different types of cheese or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra flavor.
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Crispy and satisfying: The puff pastry provides a delightful crunch, making every bite satisfying.
Health Benefits
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Protein-packed: Bacon and cheese provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and energy.
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Rich in vitamins: Leeks are rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iron, while garlic provides antioxidants that support immune health.
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Low sugar: This recipe is naturally low in sugar, making it a good choice for those watching their sugar intake.
Serving Suggestions
These puff pastry bites are perfect on their own, but they can also be paired with a simple salad for a light lunch or served with dips like ranch dressing, sour cream, or hot sauce. For an extra savory touch, serve them alongside a platter of olives or pickled vegetables.
Cooking Tips
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Thaw the puff pastry properly: Make sure the puff pastry is thawed completely before using it. If it’s too cold, it may be difficult to work with.
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Don’t overstuff the pastries: A little filling goes a long way, so don’t overstuff the puff pastry or it may burst open while baking.
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Use high-quality bacon: For the best flavor, choose high-quality bacon that crisps up nicely when cooked.
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Experiment with cheese: While cheddar and mozzarella work well, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or goat cheese for different flavor profiles.
Variations to Try
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Vegetarian version: Omit the bacon and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly option.
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Spicy twist: Add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the filling for some extra heat.
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Herb variations: Swap the dried garlic for fresh garlic or add herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Conclusion
These savory puff pastry bites with bacon, cheese, and leek are a delicious and easy snack or appetizer that everyone will enjoy. With crispy puff pastry and a rich, cheesy filling, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any event. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply looking for a tasty treat, this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen.
10 Comprehensive FAQ Section
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Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to use any cheese you prefer, such as Gruyère, feta, or goat cheese, for a unique twist. -
Can I make these in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the bites ahead of time and freeze them before baking. When ready to serve, bake them directly from the freezer. -
Can I make these puff pastry bites vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the bacon and use sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or spinach instead for a delicious vegetarian version. -
Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or even roasted red peppers to the filling for extra flavor and texture. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover puff pastry bites in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture. -
Can I make these with store-bought filling?
Yes, you can use store-bought filling such as cheese dip or pre-cooked sausage to save time. -
How do I prevent the puff pastry from getting soggy?
Ensure the filling isn’t too wet by draining any excess liquid from ingredients like tomatoes or spinach before adding them to the pastry. -
Can I use phyllo dough instead of puff pastry?
Yes, phyllo dough can be used as an alternative, but the texture will be different. It will be more delicate and crisp compared to puff pastry. -
Can I bake these without the Parmesan cheese?
Yes, the Parmesan adds extra flavor, but you can omit it if preferred or replace it with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano. -
Can I serve these with dipping sauces?
Yes, they pair well with dipping sauces like sour cream, ranch, or even a spicy mustard.