These Spinach and Bacon Cream Cheese Roll Ups are a tasty snack! With fresh spinach, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese all rolled up, they’re super easy to make and fun to eat.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of bacon and cream cheese? I love serving these at parties, but they never last long—even my picky friends ask for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the star of the show, giving creaminess to the roll ups. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese for a healthier twist.
Spinach: Fresh or frozen spinach works well! If using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water. You can swap it with kale or even arugula for a different taste.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a great crunch. If you want to make it vegetarian, consider using cooked mushrooms or tempeh bacon for a similar texture and flavor. Turkey bacon is also a leaner option.
Tortillas: I love using flour tortillas, but for a gluten-free version, corn tortillas are perfect. You can also try spinach or whole wheat tortillas for extra nutrition.
How Do You Get the Perfect Roll?
Rolling the tortillas properly can be tricky! The key is to spread the filling evenly without going too close to the edges. This helps keep the filling from spilling out when you roll.
- Lay the tortilla flat on a surface to avoid tearing.
- Start rolling tightly from one edge to the other, but not so tight that the filling squishes out.
- Once rolled, gently press down to create a tight seal. Let the roll sit for a minute to help it maintain its shape before slicing.
Slicing becomes easier when the roll sets a bit, so chilling them for 30 minutes isn’t just for flavor; it helps with the presentation too!
Spinach And Bacon Cream Cheese Roll Ups
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 large flour tortillas (or low carb tortillas if preferred)
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and an optional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. You’ll spend just a short time mixing the filling and rolling everything up. It’s a quick and tasty option for appetizers or snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir it well until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This creates a tasty base for your roll ups.
2. Add Spinach and Bacon:
Next, gently fold in the chopped spinach, crumbled bacon (save a little for topping later), and shredded cheddar cheese. Ensure everything is well combined—this filling is going to be delicious!
3. Spread on Tortillas:
Take a tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Using a spatula or a butter knife, spread an even layer of your cream cheese mixture over the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges. This prevents the filling from oozing out as you roll it.
4. Roll Up the Tortilla:
Carefully roll the tortilla tightly, starting from one end and going to the other. Make sure to keep it snug but not too tight, or the filling might spill out. Repeat this step for all the tortillas.
5. Slice and Garnish:
Once you have all the roll ups prepared, take a sharp knife and slice each roll into 1 to 1.5 inch pieces. Arrange them on a serving platter and sprinkle the reserved crumbled bacon along with some chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch.
6. Serve or Chill:
Your roll ups can be served right away or popped into the fridge for about 30 minutes so they can set and make slicing easier. Enjoy these creamy, flavorful treats at your next gathering!
Happy munching! 🎉
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can try cream cheese blends, pepper jack for a kick, or even feta for a tangy twist. Just keep the same total amount of cheese to maintain the consistency of the filling!
Can I Make These Roll Ups Vegetarian?
Yes, you can skip the bacon and use diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or artichokes for added flavor and crunch. Make sure to sauté any fresh veggies first to soften them.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make for a great snack later! Just reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy them warm again.
Can I Freeze Spinach and Bacon Cream Cheese Roll Ups?
Definitely! After slicing, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving for best results.