🍽️ Artichoke Bacon Squares are a delightful appetizer that combines the rich and savory flavors of bacon, artichokes, and cheese. They’re often enjoyed at parties and gatherings, making them a popular choice for those who appreciate a tasty and visually appealing dish.
📜 History:
The precise origin of Artichoke Bacon Squares is a bit elusive, but it likely emerged as a creative twist on traditional spinach and artichoke dip. These squares gained popularity in the United States during the mid to late 20th century, where they became a staple in party appetizer menus.
🥘 Components:
To make Artichoke Bacon Squares, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 can (14 ounces) of artichoke hearts, drained and chopped.
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise.
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
- 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
- 1/4 cup of chopped green onions.
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder.
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- 1/4 teaspoon of pepper.
- 8 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled.
- 1 can (8 ounces) of refrigerated crescent rolls.
👩🍳 Preparation Steps:
Here’s how to prepare Artichoke Bacon Squares:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the chopped artichoke hearts, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, green onions, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and crumbled bacon. Mix everything together until well combined.
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Prepare the Dough: Unroll the crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
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Spread the Mixture: Spread the artichoke and bacon mixture evenly over the crescent roll crust.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the mixture is bubbly.
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Cool and Cut: Let the squares cool for a few minutes, then cut them into bite-sized squares or rectangles.
⏲️ Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Artichoke Bacon Squares is approximately 40-45 minutes, including prep and baking time. This can vary slightly based on your oven and cooking experience.
These tasty squares make for a delicious and visually appealing appetizer that’s sure to please your guests at any gathering or party. Enjoy! 🥓🧀🍽️
Artichoke Bacon Squares Nutrition Facts and Health Information:
Nutrition (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 150-200
- Total Fat: 12-15g
- Saturated Fat: 4-6g
- Cholesterol: 20-25mg
- Sodium: 300-350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 7-9g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1-2g
- Protein: 4-6g
Health Information:
- These squares are moderately high in calories and fat due to ingredients like bacon, mayonnaise, and cheese. It’s essential to consume them in moderation.
- The dish contains some protein and fiber, thanks to ingredients like artichokes and bacon.
- Artichokes are a good source of dietary fiber and are known for their potential to support digestive health.
- While bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor, it’s also high in saturated fat and sodium, so it’s advisable to limit bacon consumption for heart health.
- The mayonnaise, though tasty, is calorie-dense, so it’s recommended to use it sparingly if you’re watching your calorie intake.
- These squares are typically enjoyed as an appetizer, and portion control is important, as the calories can add up if consumed in excess.
As with any dish, the key to maintaining a balanced diet is moderation. Enjoy Artichoke Bacon Squares as a treat, but balance your overall dietary intake with other nutritious foods. 🥗🥓🧀
