Welcome to the world of Bacon Poppers, where crispy bacon meets gooey cheese in a mouthwatering combination! If you’re a fan of bacon and love bite-sized appetizers that burst with flavor, you’re in for a treat. Bacon Poppers are the perfect party snack or game-day indulgence, offering a savory and satisfying experience with every bite.
Bacon Poppers
Equipment
- 1 Dutch Oven
Ingredients
- 4 strips bacon, crispy cooked
- Dough
- 2/3 cup water
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp bacon fat
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 oz. Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup jalapeno bacon fat peppers
- A pinch pepper
- A pinch black pepper
Instructions
- Whisk butter with water and salt in a skillet over medium heat. Stirin flour, then stir cook for about 3 minutes. Transfer this flour to abowl, then whisk in eggs and rest of the ingredients
- Fold in bacon and mix well. Wrap this dough in a plastic sheet andrefrigerate for 30 minutes. Make small balls out of this dough.
- Place these bacon balls in the Dutch oven basket. Set the basket inside the Dutch oven toaster oven and close the lid. Select the Air Fry mode at 390°F temperature for 15 minutes. Flip the balls after7 minutes then resume cooking.
- Serve warm.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
Q: Can I use any type of bacon for Bacon Poppers?
A: Yes, you can use different types of bacon depending on your preference. Traditional pork bacon is commonly used, but you can also experiment with turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon alternatives for a different twist.
Q: How do I prevent the bacon from unraveling while cooking?
A: To prevent the bacon from unraveling, it’s helpful to secure it with toothpicks. Simply insert toothpicks through the bacon and into the filling, securing the ends together. This will help the bacon maintain its shape during cooking.
Q: Can I prepare Bacon Poppers in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare Bacon Poppers in advance. If you plan to serve them later, assemble the poppers and refrigerate them until ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply bake or fry them according to the recipe instructions. This makes them a convenient option for parties or gatherings.
Q: Can I freeze Bacon Poppers?
A: Yes, you can freeze Bacon Poppers. After assembling the poppers, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag and store for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake or fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Q: Can I make a vegetarian version of Bacon Poppers?
A: Absolutely! If you’re looking for a vegetarian version of Bacon Poppers, you can use vegetarian bacon substitutes made from plant-based ingredients. These alternatives offer a similar texture and flavor profile to traditional bacon, allowing you to create a delicious vegetarian or vegan version of Bacon Poppers.
Q: What dipping sauces pair well with Bacon Poppers?
A: Bacon Poppers can be served with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance their flavor. Popular options include ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, spicy mayo, or a tangy sriracha aioli. You can also serve them with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a sweet and sour sauce for a touch of tanginess.
Q: Can I make Bacon Poppers in the oven instead of frying?
A: Yes, you can make Bacon Poppers in the oven. Simply place the assembled poppers on a baking sheet and bake them at a preheated temperature according to the recipe instructions. Baking yields crispy results while requiring less hands-on attention compared to frying.
Q: How do I ensure the filling is fully cooked?
A: To ensure the filling is fully cooked, it’s important to follow the recommended cooking time and temperature in the recipe. Additionally, you can insert a toothpick or skewer into the popper’s center to check if the filling comes out hot and cooked through. If needed, you can adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the filling is properly heated.
Q: Are Bacon Poppers suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
A: Bacon Poppers can be adapted to suit various dietary restrictions. For example, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or alternative flours for a gluten-free version. You can also customize the filling to accommodate specific dietary needs, such as using dairy-free cheese or incorporating vegan ingredients for a plant-based option. Always check the labels of the ingredients used to ensure they align with specific dietary requirements.
Cooking Tip
When making Bacon Poppers, here’s a helpful tip to ensure delicious and perfectly cooked results:
Partially Cook the Bacon: Before assembling the Bacon Poppers, it’s beneficial to partially cook the bacon slices beforehand. This step helps render some of the fat and partially crisp up the bacon, ensuring that it cooks evenly and becomes crispy during the final cooking process.
To partially cook the bacon, place the bacon slices on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels. Microwave them for about 2-3 minutes on high power until they start to shrink and release some of their fat. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s power and the thickness of the bacon.
By partially cooking the bacon, you reduce the overall cooking time needed for the Bacon Poppers. This helps to achieve a perfectly crispy bacon exterior without overcooking the filling. The bacon will also hold its shape better during cooking, making it easier to handle and resulting in a delightful crunch in every bite.
Remember to handle the partially cooked bacon carefully, as it will be hot. Once cooled slightly, it’s ready to be wrapped around the filling and prepared according to your chosen cooking method, whether it’s baking, frying, or grilling.
Serving Suggestion
Bacon Poppers are a versatile and crowd-pleasing appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Bacon Popper experience:
1. Party Platter: Arrange the cooked Bacon Poppers on a platter, allowing guests to help themselves. Garnish the platter with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
2. Dipping Sauce Trio: Serve an assortment of dipping sauces alongside the Bacon Poppers to add extra flavor. Offer options like spicy mustard, tangy barbecue sauce, creamy ranch dressing, or a zesty chipotle mayo. This allows guests to customize their dipping experience.
3. Salad Topping: Crumble a few Bacon Poppers and sprinkle them over a fresh garden salad or a Caesar salad. The crispy and savory bacon bits will elevate the salad, adding a burst of flavor and a delightful crunch.
4. Slider-Style: Place a cooked Bacon Popper inside a small slider bun or mini roll, and top it with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite condiments. This creates a mouthwatering bacon slider that is perfect for a casual gathering or game day.
5. Skewered Appetizers: Thread cooked Bacon Poppers onto skewers along with cherry tomatoes, mini mozzarella balls, or cubes of grilled vegetables. This creates colorful and flavorful skewered appetizers that are visually appealing and easy to eat.
6. Breakfast Brunch: Serve Bacon Poppers as part of a brunch spread. They can be enjoyed alongside eggs, toast, fresh fruit, and other breakfast favorites. The combination of bacon and cheese adds a savory element to the meal.
7. Bacon Poppers Bar: Set up a DIY Bacon Poppers bar, allowing guests to create their own variations. Offer different fillings like cream cheese, jalapeño, or even a combination of different cheeses. Provide an array of toppings and sauces for guests to personalize their Bacon Poppers.
Remember to consider dietary preferences and restrictions when serving Bacon Poppers, offering vegetarian or gluten-free options as needed. These serving suggestions are just a starting point, so feel free to get creative and adapt them to suit your taste and occasion.