These Spinach and Bacon Cream Cheese Roll Ups are a tasty treat! With creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh spinach wrapped up in a soft tortilla, they’re perfect for any snack time.
Who can resist that combo? I love to serve these at parties, and they vanish in no time—just like my willpower when I see them on the plate! 😂
Making these is a breeze! You simply spread the cream cheese, sprinkle the bacon and spinach, roll it up, and slice. Quick, easy, and super yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives a rich flavor and texture. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter option or a vegetarian alternative like tempeh bacon for a meat-free version.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is essential for freshness. If it’s unavailable, kale or Swiss chard work well too. Frozen spinach can be a substitute, just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess to the filling. For a lighter alternative, try Greek yogurt or cottage cheese, though the texture will be different. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan enhance flavor. You might swap mozzarella for cheddar or a cheese of your choice, and nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Make Perfectly Rolled Bacon Rolls?
Rolling up the bacon tightly is important for these snacks to hold together. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the bacon until it’s slightly crispy yet still flexible. This keeps it from breaking when rolling.
- Spread the filling evenly on each slice, being careful not to overfill; this helps avoid spills as you roll.
- Start rolling from one end tightly, keeping the filling inside. Try to keep the bacon seam side down to prevent unrolling during baking.
- Bake until the bacon is crispy and the filling is hot—it should be bubbling slightly for that perfect creamy texture.
These tips will help your roll ups turn out perfectly every time. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Spinach And Bacon Cream Cheese Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 slices bacon
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15-20 minutes for baking, giving you a total of around 30-35 minutes to enjoy these tasty roll ups!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This gets the oven ready for baking your delicious roll ups. While it’s heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s starting to crisp but is still pliable—this makes it easier to roll. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the bacon aside on a paper towel.
3. Sauté the Spinach:
In the same skillet, add the chopped spinach and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until just wilted. Take it off the heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
4. Mix the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, the wilted spinach, minced garlic, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
5. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Lay out the cooked bacon slices on the prepared baking sheet. Spread an even layer of the spinach and cream cheese mixture on each bacon slice, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Roll and Bake:
Carefully roll up each slice of bacon around the filling, making sure to encase the filling snugly. Place the roll ups seam side down on the baking sheet.
Bake in your preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese filling is bubbly and slightly golden.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the roll ups from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish them with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy these creamy, savory roll ups as a delicious appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that it may not achieve the same crispiness as traditional bacon, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make These Roll Ups in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the roll ups and refrigerate them before baking. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When you’re ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge, but you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Filling?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative. You can add diced cooked chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even peppers for extra flavor and texture. Just make sure not to overfill the bacon to keep everything intact!