Bacon Roll-ups II

Bacon Roll-ups II Recipe - Delicious & Easy-to-make!

Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Bacon Roll-ups II is a delightful appetizer that combines the savory taste of bacon with the creamy texture of seasoned cream cheese, all wrapped up in a soft bread blanket. This recipe is perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a tasty snack. Its simplicity, combined with the irresistible combination of flavors, makes it a favorite among both adults and children. Whether you're hosting a formal dinner or looking for something to munch on during movie night, these bacon roll-ups are sure to impress.

History

The origin of bacon roll-ups can be traced back to the mid-20th century, where they emerged as a popular hors d'oeuvre in the United States. Initially, they were a simple concoction of bacon wrapped around a filling, often a date or a water chestnut, showcasing the era's fascination with bite-sized, bacon-wrapped delights. Over time, the recipe evolved, incorporating various fillings, including the creamy and flavorful cream cheese mixture we see in this version. This evolution reflects the changing tastes and creativity in American kitchens, making bacon roll-ups a timeless classic.

Ingredients

1 (1 lb (454 g)) loaf of sandwich bread
16 oz (454 g) of softened cream cheese
1 tsp of garlic powder
1 tsp of dried parsley
1 lb (454 g) of bacon, cut in half

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a baking sheet.
Remove the crusts from the bread slices, then cut each piece of bread into three equal rectangles.
In a small bowl, combine cream cheese, garlic powder, and parsley.
Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture on each bread rectangle, and roll it up.
Wrap a slice of bacon around each of the bread rolls and secure them with wooden picks.
Arrange the roll ups on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake until the bacon is crisp, approximately 10 minutes.
Enjoy.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider adding different ingredients to the cream cheese mixture, such as chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or different herbs and spices. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as rye or pumpernickel, for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your bacon roll-ups turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use thin bacon for easier wrapping and to ensure it becomes crispy without overcooking the bread.

- Secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it from unraveling during baking.

- For an even more flavorful roll-up, consider adding finely chopped green onions or cheddar cheese to the cream cheese mixture.

- If you prefer a crunchier texture, lightly toast the bread slices before spreading the cream cheese mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the bacon roll-ups hot, straight from the oven, for the best taste and texture. They can be accompanied by a side of fresh vegetables, such as carrot sticks or cucumber slices, to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Cooking Techniques

Baking is the recommended cooking technique for bacon roll-ups, as it allows the bacon to become crispy while keeping the bread soft. For an extra crispy finish, you can broil the roll-ups for the last 1-2 minutes of cooking, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute whole grain bread for white bread, and use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular. Turkey bacon is a great alternative to regular bacon for those looking to reduce their intake of saturated fats.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the bacon roll-ups ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a day before baking. This makes them a convenient option for entertaining.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, arrange the bacon roll-ups on a platter garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce, such as ranch or honey mustard, for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

Bacon roll-ups pair well with light, crisp white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which can help cut through the richness of the bacon and cream cheese. For non-alcoholic options, consider serving with iced tea or sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover bacon roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of bacon roll-ups contains approximately 250 calories. The majority of these calories come from fats and carbohydrates, making it a high-energy snack.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of bacon roll-ups contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe is the bread, which provides the body with energy. Opting for whole grain bread can increase the fiber content, making it a healthier option.

Fats

Bacon roll-ups are relatively high in fats, primarily due to the bacon and cream cheese. Each serving contains about 20 grams of fat, of which 9 grams are saturated fats. To reduce the fat content, you can use low-fat cream cheese and opt for turkey bacon as a leaner alternative.

Proteins

This appetizer is a good source of protein, with each serving providing approximately 10 grams. The protein comes from both the bacon and the cream cheese, contributing to muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

Bacon roll-ups offer a range of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the cream cheese, as well as phosphorus, zinc, and B vitamins from the bacon. These nutrients play vital roles in maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and energy metabolism.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe include dairy (from the cream cheese) and gluten (from the bread). Individuals with sensitivities to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Bacon roll-ups are a delicious, high-energy appetizer that provides a good balance of proteins and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. However, due to their high calorie and fat content, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Bacon Roll-ups II is a versatile and delicious appetizer that's perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it's sure to be a hit with your guests. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making it a staple in your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately captivated. It was a hot summer day, and I was rummaging through my old recipe box, looking for something new to try. That's when I stumbled upon a faded index card with the words "Bacon Roll-ups II" scrawled across it in elegant cursive handwriting. Intrigued, I read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watering at the thought of crispy bacon wrapped around a savory filling.

As I read through the recipe, memories flooded back to me of the many different places and people from whom I had acquired my vast collection of recipes. Some were passed down from my own mother, while others were shared with me by friends and neighbors. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, a connection to a moment in time or a beloved memory.

But this recipe for Bacon Roll-ups II was different. It was unlike anything I had ever seen before, a unique combination of flavors and textures that piqued my curiosity. I knew I had to make it, to try my hand at creating something new and exciting in my own kitchen.

I gathered the ingredients, carefully measuring out each one as I prepared to bring this recipe to life. The smell of sizzling bacon filled the air as I cooked it to perfection, the fat rendering and crisping up in the pan. In a separate bowl, I mixed together cream cheese, green onions, and seasonings, creating a creamy and flavorful filling that would be wrapped inside the bacon.

As I assembled the roll-ups, carefully spooning the filling onto each strip of bacon before rolling them up tightly, I couldn't help but think back to all the times I had spent in the kitchen with my mother and grandmother, learning the art of cooking from the women who came before me. They had taught me so much about the importance of good food and shared meals, about the joy of creating something delicious to share with loved ones.

Once the roll-ups were assembled, I popped them into the oven to bake, the smell of bacon and cheese wafting through the kitchen as they cooked. I couldn't wait to try them, to see if this recipe that had captured my imagination would live up to my expectations.

When the timer finally dinged, signaling that the roll-ups were ready, I carefully removed them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before taking a bite. The first taste was magical, a perfect combination of crispy bacon and creamy filling that melted in my mouth. I closed my eyes, savoring the flavors and textures, feeling a sense of accomplishment at having successfully recreated this recipe that had intrigued me so.

As I enjoyed the Bacon Roll-ups II, I thought about all the recipes I had collected over the years, all the stories and memories they held. Each one was a piece of my culinary journey, a reminder of the people and places that had shaped me into the cook I was today. And this recipe, with its unique blend of flavors and its ability to capture my imagination, would always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and creativity that cooking brought to my life.