Bocconcini di Patate, Cheese, and Bacon: A Perfect Appetizer Recipe
If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s as delicious as it is comforting, these Bocconcini di Patate, Cheese, and Bacon will surely hit the spot. This Italian-inspired dish brings together the rich flavors of creamy potatoes, savory Emmental cheese, and smoky pancetta. Perfectly crispy on the outside, soft and cheesy on the inside, these little bites make an ideal starter for any meal or a savory treat for gatherings.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| New potatoes (Patate novelle) | 12 potatoes |
| Smoked pancetta (Pancetta affumicata) | 24 slices |
| Emmental cheese | 100g (grated) |
| Extra virgin olive oil (Olio extravergine d’oliva) | to taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Value (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 300mg |
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Instructions
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Prepare the Potatoes: Begin by peeling the new potatoes. Once peeled, transfer them to a large pot filled with water, adding a pinch of salt for flavor. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for about 20 minutes or until they are soft and fully cooked. You can check the doneness by inserting a knife into the center of a potato; it should slide in easily.
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Drain and Cool: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain the water and allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes. You want them to be cool enough to handle but still warm.
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Stuff the Potatoes: Take one of the potatoes and gently create an opening in the center, making space for the cheese. Place a small piece of grated Emmental cheese into the hollowed-out portion of the potato.
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Wrap with Pancetta: Next, take a slice of smoked pancetta and wrap it around the potato to secure the cheese inside. Lay another slice of pancetta in a cross pattern on top of the first slice, so the bacon completely envelops the potato, creating a neat and secure bundle.
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Arrange and Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F), ensuring it’s set for static (conventional) baking. Arrange the bacon-wrapped potatoes on a baking tray, making sure they are spaced evenly.
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Cook the Bocconcini: Place the baking tray in the oven and bake for approximately 20 minutes. The pancetta will become crispy and golden, while the cheese inside will melt into a delicious, creamy filling.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the Bocconcini di Patate are beautifully golden and crisp, remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before serving. These little potato, cheese, and bacon bites are best enjoyed warm!
Pro Tips for Perfect Bocconcini di Patate
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Potato Variety: If new potatoes aren’t available, you can use any small, waxy potatoes that hold their shape when boiled. These will work best for this recipe, as they won’t fall apart during the baking process.
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Cheese Substitutes: While Emmental provides a smooth, nutty flavor, you can also use other cheeses such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or a mild cheddar. Just make sure the cheese melts well to create a gooey center.
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Pancetta Alternatives: If pancetta is not available, you can substitute it with bacon. For a leaner option, turkey bacon also works well, though it won’t have quite the same smoky depth.
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Make-Ahead Option: These Bocconcini di Patate can be made in advance. Simply assemble the potatoes with the cheese and pancetta, place them on the baking tray, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. When ready to serve, simply bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold temperature.
This recipe for Bocconcini di Patate, Cheese, and Bacon is a delightful and savory treat that will add a special touch to any meal or gathering. The combination of tender potatoes, melty cheese, and crispy pancetta is sure to please both kids and adults alike. Perfect as a starter, a party appetizer, or even a quick snack, these cheesy potato bites are irresistibly good!
Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a casual family meal, or a festive get-together, these Bocconcini will undoubtedly be a hit at the table. Enjoy the layers of flavor and the fun of digging into these cheesy, bacon-wrapped treats!
