Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the cream cheese, feta cheese, grated cheese (cheddar or gouda), and mozzarella. Mix in the minced garlic (10g) and chopped parsley (30g) until well combined. Set aside.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Roll out the puff pastry (700g) on a floured surface. If using frozen puff pastry, make sure it is fully thawed. Cut the pastry into even portions, large enough to hold the cheese filling.
Assemble the Pastry:
Spoon the cheese mixture evenly onto the puff pastry pieces.
Fold the puff pastry over the filling to seal it, crimping the edges with a fork. You can create small pockets or larger turnovers based on your preference.
Brush the top of the puff pastry with a beaten egg for a golden finish.
Bake the Pastry:
Place the filled puff pastry pieces on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 30 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
Prepare the Bacon and Cream Sauce:
While the puff pastry is baking, cook the bacon (100g) in a pan until crispy. Remove and crumble.
In the same pan, add the minced garlic (2 cloves) and chopped rosemary (10g). Sauté until fragrant.
Add the cooking cream (200g), mustard (25g), salt (2g), and black pepper (2g) to the pan. Stir and cook the sauce on low heat until it thickens slightly.
Add the crumbled bacon back into the sauce and stir.
Serve:
Once the puff pastry is baked and golden, remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
Serve the baked puff pastry with the creamy bacon and herb sauce drizzled over or as a dipping sauce on the side.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as a hearty appetizer or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Pair with a side of roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus for a balanced plate.
Add extra fresh herbs like basil or chives on top for added flavor and freshness.
Cooking Tips:
For a crispier puff pastry, make sure it’s cold when you work with it and avoid overfilling, as this can cause the pastry to become soggy.
To save time, cook the bacon in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
You can substitute cooking cream with half-and-half or heavy cream for a richer sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
Cheese is a good source of calcium and protein.
Parsley is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, offering antioxidant benefits.
Garlic is known for its potential heart health benefits and immune-boosting properties.
Dietary Information:
Not suitable for vegetarians (due to bacon, but can be made vegetarian by omitting bacon and using plant-based alternatives).
Not gluten-free (contains puff pastry with gluten, but gluten-free puff pastry can be substituted).
Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):
Calories: ~450
Protein: 18g
Fat: 34g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) to restore crispiness.
Freezing: You can freeze unbaked puff pastry pockets. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
It’s loaded with creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and fragrant herbs, making it rich and flavorful.
Puff pastry offers a crispy, buttery exterior that perfectly complements the cheesy filling.
It’s versatile and can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course.
The creamy bacon sauce takes it to the next level, adding a rich and savory element to the dish.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Puff Pastry Bake with Bacon and Herbs is the ultimate comfort food, combining layers of cheese, crispy puff pastry, and flavorful bacon. Whether served as a savory snack or a hearty meal, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. The creamy bacon and herb sauce adds an extra indulgent touch, making it the perfect addition to your next gathering or special dinner.
10 Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the bacon and use a plant-based alternative or skip the bacon entirely.
Can I use pre-made puff pastry?
Yes, store-bought puff pastry works perfectly for this recipe.
Can I freeze the unbaked rolls?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled puff pastry pockets before baking and bake them from frozen.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your favorite cheeses, like gouda, Swiss, or Parmesan.
How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
Avoid overfilling and bake until the pastry is golden and fully cooked. Using cold puff pastry also helps.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before serving.
What can I substitute for cooking cream?
You can use heavy cream, half-and-half, or even milk for a lighter version.
Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a healthier alternative to regular bacon.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Can I use frozen puff pastry?
Yes, just make sure it’s fully thawed before using.
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