When you’re short on time but still crave something delicious, flaky, and full of flavor, look no further than this crispy puff pastry recipe packed with gooey mozzarella, smoky bacon, tangy mustard, and fresh dill. Whether served as an appetizer, party snack, or indulgent brunch treat, these Cheesy Bacon Puff Pastry Squares are guaranteed to impress.
Simple to make using store-bought puff pastry, this recipe offers a perfect balance of crisp texture, savory richness, and customizable flavor options. Plus, it’s easy to adapt for vegetarians or spice lovers. Let’s dive into how to make this crowd-pleasing recipe!
⭐ Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 2 x 400g puff pastry sheets (store-bought for convenience)
- 3–4 teaspoons mustard (Dijon or your favorite kind)
- 150g hard mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced or grated
- 200g bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 chicken egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 150g ketchup (for spreading or dipping, optional)
Preparation Steps
- Preheat Your Oven:
Heat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. - Build the First Layer:
Place one sheet of puff pastry on the baking sheet. Spread half the mustard evenly across the surface, leaving a small border around the edges. Then sprinkle half the mozzarella, half the crispy bacon, and half the chopped dill evenly over the top. - Add the Second Sheet:
Lay the second sheet of puff pastry over the top. Press gently to seal the edges. Repeat the layering with the remaining mustard, cheese, bacon, and dill on the top surface. - Score & Brush:
Lightly score the top with a knife into squares or rectangles — don’t cut all the way through. This will make slicing easier after baking. Brush the top with beaten egg for that golden, glossy finish. - Bake to Perfection:
Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown. Let cool slightly before slicing. - Serve with Ketchup (Optional):
Enjoy warm, with ketchup on the side for dipping or a drizzle on top for extra tang.
Delicious Variations
Spicy Twist
- Add smoked paprika or swap the mozzarella with smoked cheese.
- Mix a few drops of hot sauce into the mustard for heat.
- Try spicy aioli or chipotle mayo as a base layer.
Vegetarian Delight
- Omit the bacon.
- Add caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted veggies.
- Toss in sun-dried tomatoes or black olives for Mediterranean flair.
Herb Options
- No dill? Use thyme, oregano, or chives instead.
- Fresh herbs add brightness, but dried herbs work well too.
Other Base Layers
- Not a mustard fan? Try pesto, garlic butter, or even tomato paste.
Tips for Best Results
- Extra-Crispy Bacon: Bake bacon in the oven before chopping. This keeps it crunchy even after baking.
- Cheese Tip: Don’t overstuff with cheese or the pastry may become soggy.
- Scoring Helps: Scoring before baking helps the pastry puff evenly and makes slicing easier after baking.
- Cool Before Cutting: Let it rest for 5–10 minutes to avoid tearing the layers.
️ How to Serve
- Appetizers: Cut into bite-sized squares and serve on a platter.
- Breakfast or Brunch: Serve warm with eggs or a fresh salad.
- Party Food: Make a double batch — they disappear fast!
- Lunchbox Favorite: Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat for a savory snack.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Protein: 10 g
- Fat: 24 g
- Carbs: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugars: 2 g
(Based on 8 servings; values may vary with ingredient brands.)
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Bacon Puff Pastry with Dill is the kind of recipe you’ll find yourself making over and over. It’s quick, satisfying, and endlessly versatile. With layers of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, fragrant dill, and buttery pastry, it’s hard not to love every bite.
Feel free to make it your own — the flavor combos are nearly endless. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself to a savory snack, this heavenly dish hits all the right notes.
