These Spinach and Bacon Cream Cheese Roll Ups are a yummy snack that combines crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese. They make a great party treat or game day snack!
Honestly, who can resist bacon and cream cheese together? I love making these for friends because they disappear in seconds. Just roll them up, slice, and enjoy the smiles!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Zucchini: These are used to create a fresh and healthy wrapper. If zucchini is unavailable, you can substitute with eggplant or thinly sliced bell peppers for a colorful twist.
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. You could try flavored cream cheese (like garlic herb) for added taste or use dairy-free cream cheese if you’re avoiding dairy.
Bacon: Bacon is key for flavor, but turkey bacon or prosciutto can work as substitutes. You can also use crispy chickpeas if you want a vegetarian option that adds crunch.
Fresh Spinach: While fresh is best, you can use frozen spinach—just be sure to thaw and squeeze excess water out. Kale or Swiss chard can also make a good swap.
How Do I Cut Zucchini Into Ribbons?
Cutting zucchini into ribbons might seem tricky, but it’s quite simple! Here’s how:
- If you have a mandoline, that’s the best tool—set it to a thin slice. If not, use a sharp knife.
- Trim the ends of the zucchini and start slicing lengthwise to create long ribbons. You can also cut them into wide strips if you prefer.
- Keep the slices consistent so they cook evenly.
For easier rolling, it’s essential to keep the slices thin – this will help them bend without breaking!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Bacon for This Recipe?
Crispy bacon adds great texture. Here’s a quick method:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon in a single layer; don’t crowd the pan.
- Cook until browned and crispy, usually about 5-7 minutes per side. Flip as needed for even cooking.
- Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease; this helps maintain crispiness.
Cooking it this way ensures maximum flavor and crunch for your roll ups!
Spinach And Bacon Cream Cheese Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roll Ups:
- 2 medium zucchinis (for making thin slices or ribbons)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time. You’ll then bake the roll ups for 15-20 minutes. In total, plan for about 30-40 minutes before you can indulge in these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s nice and hot when your roll ups are ready to bake! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
Using a mandoline slicer or a sharp knife, carefully slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin, wide ribbons. These will be used as your roll-up base. Aim for about 1/8 inch thick so they’ll bend easily. Set the zucchini slices aside.
3. Cook the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the bacon slices. Cook them until they’re nice and crispy, usually around 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble or chop the bacon into small pieces.
4. Sauté the Spinach:
In the same pan (with a little olive oil if needed), add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the chopped spinach and cook for about 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove the pan from heat and let the spinach mixture cool slightly.
5. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with the sautéed spinach, crumbled bacon, shredded mozzarella, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
6. Assemble the Roll Ups:
Lay the zucchini ribbons flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture over each ribbon, covering it evenly. Sprinkle some crumbled bacon on top of the mixture for extra flavor.
7. Roll Them Up:
Carefully roll each zucchini ribbon up, starting from one end, making sure to keep the filling inside. Place the roll-ups seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and let the roll ups bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the filling is hot.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Once out of the oven, feel free to garnish with extra chopped parsley and any remaining bacon bits. Let your roll ups cool slightly before slicing them into bite-sized pieces. Serve warm and enjoy!
These Spinach and Bacon Cream Cheese Roll Ups are a flavorful treat that beautifully balances creaminess with savory goodness. They’re a great pick for appetizers or a fun snack!
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Zucchini?
Absolutely! You can use thinly sliced eggplant, bell peppers, or even large sweet potatoes as alternatives. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you choose a denser vegetable.
Can I Make These Roll Ups Vegetarian?
Yes, just omit the bacon and replace it with a crunchy veggie option like sunflower seeds or nuts for added texture. You can also try some marinated artichokes or olives for extra flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roll ups in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Prep These Roll Ups in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the roll up filling and slice the zucchini a day ahead. Just assemble and bake them when you’re ready to serve for the freshest taste.
