These Crispy Cheese and Bacon Rolls are the perfect balance of indulgence and sophistication. Picture golden, flaky puff pastry cradling a rich, gooey cheese filling, topped with crispy, smoky bacon bits. Each bite is a delightful combination of buttery crunch and creamy decadence, with just enough saltiness from the bacon to keep you coming back for more.
Whether served as an appetizer, snack, or brunch side dish, these irresistible rolls are guaranteed to be a hit. They’re quick to prepare and versatile enough to suit a variety of occasions—from holiday parties to lazy Sunday mornings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Elegance: Using store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe easy yet visually impressive.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and buttery pastry creates a crowd-pleasing dish.
- Customizable: Swap out cheeses, add herbs, or experiment with toppings for a personal touch.
Ingredients
This recipe makes approximately 12 rolls:
For the Pastry Base
- 1 sheet of puff pastry, thawed if frozen
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
For the Filling
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Topping
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the puff pastry sheet on a lightly floured surface to smooth any creases.
2. Assemble the Rolls
- Spread the softened cream cheese evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella, Parmesan, garlic powder, and onion powder over the cream cheese layer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Roll the puff pastry tightly into a log, starting from one edge. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 12 equal pieces.
3. Add Bacon and Bake
- Place the slices flat-side down onto the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the tops of the rolls. Gently press the bacon into the surface to help it stick.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
4. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness (optional).
- Serve warm and enjoy the melty, cheesy goodness!
Tips for Success
- Keep the Pastry Cold: Work quickly with the puff pastry to keep it from softening. If it becomes too warm, place it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
- Cook Bacon Ahead: For crispier bacon, cook it ahead of time and let it cool before crumbling.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to swap out the cheeses. Gouda, cheddar, or even brie would work beautifully.
- Add Herbs: Fresh thyme, chives, or rosemary can be added to the cheese mixture for an herby twist.
Serving Suggestions
These rolls are best served warm and fresh out of the oven, making them perfect for gatherings. Pair them with a light salad for brunch or serve alongside a dipping sauce like honey mustard or marinara for an appetizer.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free option.
- Sweet and Savory: Drizzle the rolls with a bit of honey or maple syrup for a sweet-salty combo.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a hint of heat.
Final Thoughts
Crispy Cheese and Bacon Rolls are more than just a recipe—they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Their rich, savory flavor and flaky texture make them a standout dish that will have your guests reaching for seconds (and thirds!). Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy night in, these rolls deliver on every front.
Give them a try, and prepare for these delicious bites to become your go-to recipe for entertaining!
