There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of freshly baked pastries wafting through the kitchen. Cheese and Bacon Turnovers are the perfect blend of savory goodness and flaky texture, making them an ideal snack or appetizer. Whether you’re hosting friends for game night or just need a quick solution for a busy day, these turnovers are sure to impress. They’re easy to whip up, and trust me, the smiles on your loved ones’ faces when they take that first bite will be worth every minute spent in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Cheese and Bacon Turnovers
These Cheese and Bacon Turnovers are a game-changer for any home cook. They come together quickly, making them perfect for those hectic weeknights or last-minute gatherings. The combination of gooey cheese and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re versatile enough to serve as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. You’ll find yourself making these again and again!
Ingredients for Cheese and Bacon Turnovers
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delightful Cheese and Bacon Turnovers. Here’s what you’ll need:
All-purpose flour: The foundation of your pastry, providing structure and flakiness.
Salt: A pinch enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, it adds richness and helps create that flaky texture.
Ice water: Essential for bringing the dough together without warming it up too much.
Shredded cheddar cheese: The star of the filling, offering a sharp, creamy flavor.
Cooked and crumbled bacon: Adds a savory crunch that pairs perfectly with the cheese.
Cream cheese: Softened, it brings creaminess and helps bind the filling.
Egg: Beaten, for brushing on top to achieve that golden-brown finish.
Garlic powder: A dash adds depth and a hint of savory goodness.
Onion powder: Complements the garlic and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Freshly ground black pepper: To taste, it adds a subtle kick to the filling.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding diced jalapeños for a spicy twist or swapping out the cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack cheese. You can find the exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Cheese and Bacon Turnovers
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by combining the all-purpose flour and salt in a large bowl. This simple mix is the base of your pastry. Next, add the cold, cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. It should feel a bit like sand. Gradually pour in the ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Don’t overwork it! Once it forms a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it rest. This dough is the canvas for your delicious Cheese and Bacon Turnovers.
Step 2: Chill the Dough
Chilling the dough is crucial for achieving that flaky texture. It allows the butter to firm up, which helps create layers when baked. Pop the wrapped dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This short wait will make a big difference in your final product!
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare Filling
While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfect bake. In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and softened cream cheese. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined. This cheesy, savory filling is what makes these turnovers irresistible. The aroma alone will have your mouth watering!
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough
Once the dough has chilled, it’s time to roll it out. On a lightly floured surface, use a rolling pin to flatten the dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. This thickness is key for a flaky turnover. Next, cut the dough into 4-inch squares. Don’t worry if they aren’t perfect; a little rustic charm adds character!
Step 5: Assemble the Turnovers
Now comes the fun part! Place a tablespoon of the cheese and bacon mixture in the center of each square. Fold the dough over to create a triangle, making sure to press the edges to seal. For an extra touch, use a fork to crimp the edges. This not only seals in the delicious filling but also gives your turnovers a nice decorative look. It’s like giving them a little hug before they go into the oven!
Step 6: Bake the Turnovers
Brush the tops of your assembled turnovers with the beaten egg for that golden-brown finish. Place them on a lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on them; they’re done when they’re beautifully golden. Let them cool slightly before serving, and get ready for the compliments!
Tips for Success
Use cold ingredients for the dough to ensure flakiness.
Don’t skip the chilling step; it’s essential for texture.
Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
Make sure to seal the edges well to prevent leaks.
Keep an eye on the oven; every oven bakes differently.
Equipment Needed
Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; any size will do.
Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out the dough; a wine bottle works in a pinch!
Baking sheet: A flat tray for baking; line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Fork: For crimping edges; your fingers can also do the trick!
Plastic wrap: To cover the dough while chilling; a clean kitchen towel can substitute.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese mixture for a fiery twist.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or thyme to elevate the flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a delicious meat-free version.
Cheese Swap: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or feta for unique tastes.
Sweet Surprise: For a dessert twist, fill with sweetened cream cheese and fruit preserves instead of savory ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside a zesty dipping sauce, like ranch or spicy aioli.
Complement with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.
Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
Present on a rustic wooden board for a charming display.
FAQs about Cheese and Bacon Turnovers
Can I make Cheese and Bacon Turnovers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the turnovers and freeze them before baking. Just assemble them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, sautéed mushrooms or spinach work wonderfully. You can also use turkey bacon or even crispy prosciutto for a different flavor profile. The key is to maintain that savory element!
How do I store leftover turnovers?
Store any leftover Cheese and Bacon Turnovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely! While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Each will bring its own unique flavor to the turnovers.
What dipping sauces pair well with these turnovers?
These turnovers are delicious on their own, but they pair beautifully with dipping sauces. Try ranch dressing, spicy aioli, or even a tangy barbecue sauce for a delightful contrast!
Final Thoughts
Creating Cheese and Bacon Turnovers is more than just cooking; it’s about sharing joy and deliciousness with those you care about. The process is simple, yet the results are nothing short of impressive. Each flaky bite bursts with cheesy goodness and crispy bacon, making them a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re enjoying them on a cozy night in or serving them at a party, these turnovers are sure to bring smiles. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the kitchen adventure, and let the aroma of these savory pastries fill your home with warmth and happiness!
Cheese and Bacon Turnovers are delicious pastries filled with a savory mixture of cheese and bacon, perfect for a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 cup ice water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, mix together the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until well combined.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into 4-inch squares.
Place a tablespoon of the cheese and bacon mixture in the center of each square.
Fold the dough over to create a triangle and press the edges to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative touch.
Brush the tops of the turnovers with the beaten egg.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Allow to cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For a spicier twist, add diced jalapeños to the cheese mixture.
You can substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
Enjoy these turnovers as a snack or appetizer at your next gathering!
