This Million Dollar Bacon Crostini is a fun twist on brunch! Crispy crostini tops with a blend of sweet and spicy bacon, giving each bite a lively kick that’s hard to resist.
The combination of crunchy bread and mouth-watering bacon is simply irresistible. Trust me, one won’t be enough—get ready to share…if you want to! 😂
I love serving these at gatherings because they’re quick and always a hit. Plus, it’s so easy to make a big batch. Perfect for impressing friends without too much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baguette: A French baguette works best for this recipe due to its crisp crust and soft interior. If you can’t find one, ciabatta or sourdough are good alternatives that will still hold the toppings well.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese brings a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese instead. They provide creaminess with fewer calories!
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is ideal for its meaty texture and crispiness. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, look for plant-based bacon products or roasted mushrooms, which can offer a delightful umami flavor.
Spices: The combination of cayenne pepper and smoked paprika makes the bacon sweet with a bit of heat. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the cayenne or swap it out for a little more smoked paprika alone!
How Do I Get My Bacon Perfectly Crispy?
Getting that bacon crispy is key! Here’s the best way to achieve it:
- Use thick-cut bacon for the best results; it stays meaty and doesn’t burn easily.
- Mix the spice blend before applying it to the bacon—it helps to create an even coating.
- Keep an eye on your bacon while it cooks, especially towards the end. It can go from perfect to burnt quickly!
- Let the bacon drain on paper towels once out of the oven; this step removes excess fat and keeps it crispy.
How to Make Million Dollar Bacon Crostini
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crostini:
- 1 French baguette, sliced into 1/2 inch slices
- Olive oil (for brushing bread)
For the Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Bacon Topping:
- 4-5 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total: 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy dish to make, perfect for impressing guests or simply indulging yourself!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready to crisp up your crostini and bacon perfectly.
2. Prepare the Crostini:
Take the sliced baguette and arrange them on a baking sheet. Lightly brush each side with olive oil. This will help them achieve that nice, golden crispiness!
3. Toast the Bread:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and toast the bread for about 8-10 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through so they crisp evenly. Once they’re golden and crispy, remove them and let them cool.
4. Mix the Bacon Spice Rub:
While the bread is toasting, grab a mixing bowl. Combine the brown sugar, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. This will be the flavor booster for your bacon!
5. Prepare the Bacon:
Place the bacon slices on a lined baking tray. Evenly sprinkle the spice mixture over the bacon. You can bake the bacon at the same time as the bread if you have enough room in the oven!
6. Bake the Bacon:
Put the bacon in the oven and let it bake for 15-20 minutes or until it’s crispy and caramelized. Keep a close eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn!
7. Drain the Bacon:
Once it’s cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off some of the excess fat. If you like, drizzle some maple syrup over the warm bacon for an extra layer of sweetness!
8. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture:
In a small bowl, blend the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until smooth. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
9. Assemble the Crostini:
Spread a generous layer of the cream cheese mixture onto each toasted baguette slice. Be generous; this is the best part!
10. Add the Bacon Topping:
Top each piece with the caramelized bacon pieces. Don’t be shy—load them up!
11. Garnish and Serve:
Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley over your crostini for a pop of color and an extra touch of flavor. Serve them immediately and enjoy!
Enjoy your Million Dollar Bacon Crostini—rich, sweet, spicy, and utterly delicious!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While a French baguette provides a wonderful crunch, you can also use ciabatta, sourdough, or even whole grain bread for a different flavor and texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Crostini?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain the crispness.
Can I Make the Bacon Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the bacon a day in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or microwave before assembling your crostini.
What Can I Substitute for Bacon?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, roasted mushrooms or plant-based bacon can add a similar umami flavor. Try adding some smoked paprika for that extra smoky taste!