Homemade Air Fryer Bacon and Cheese Turnovers Recipe
Looking for a delicious, quick breakfast or snack idea that your whole family will love? These homemade air fryer bacon and cheese turnovers deliver all the satisfaction of bakery-fresh pastries right in your own kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and an air fryer, you can whip these up in under 15 minutes! Not only are they affordable, but they’re also a lighter version of a beloved classic. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’s perfect for busy mornings, brunches, or even an indulgent snack.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Turnovers
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 15 minutes, including prep and cooking time. Perfect for when you’re short on time.
- Budget-Friendly: Skip the store-bought pastries and make your own for a fraction of the cost.
- Customizable: Use turkey bacon, vegetarian alternatives, or mix in different cheeses to suit your taste.
- Healthier Option: By air frying, you’ll save on extra oil and calories compared to deep frying.
- Family Favorite: A hit with kids and adults alike, these turnovers are the perfect blend of flaky pastry, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese.
Ingredients for Bacon and Cheese Turnovers
This recipe makes 6 turnovers. Feel free to scale it up or down as needed.
- Ready-Rolled Puff Pastry Sheet (320g): Convenient and easy to use. Let it sit at room temperature for smoother handling.
- 6 Smoked Bacon Medallions: Trimmed of fat for a leaner bite. Substitute with turkey bacon or veggie bacon as needed.
- 50g Grated Cheese: Use cheddar and mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy filling. You can also experiment with Gruyère or Parmesan for a twist.
- 50g Cream Cheese: Adds a creamy texture to balance the crispiness of the pastry.
- 1 Medium Egg: For an egg wash that creates a golden, flaky crust.
- Optional Seasoning: A sprinkle of sage or black pepper for extra flavor.
Making Air Fryer Bacon and Cheese Turnovers
1. Prepare Your Pastry
- Remove the puff pastry from the fridge 15 minutes before use. This prevents cracking and makes it easier to roll out.
- Roll out the pastry and cut it into 6 equal pieces. To ensure even portions, slice the sheet into thirds lengthwise, then cut across the middle.
2. Make the Filling
- In a small bowl, mix the grated cheese and cream cheese together until well combined. Add a pinch of black pepper for a hint of spice.
- Spread the cheese mixture diagonally across each piece of pastry from the top left to the bottom right corner.
3. Add the Bacon
- Place one uncooked bacon medallion over the cheese mixture on each pastry square. The bacon will cook perfectly inside the turnover, absorbing all the cheesy goodness.
4. Fold and Seal
- Fold the pastry over from the bottom left corner to the top right corner, forming a triangle. Press the edges together to seal.
- For a decorative touch and extra security, use a fork to crimp the edges.
5. Apply the Egg Wash
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and use a pastry brush to coat each turnover. If you don’t have a brush, pour the egg onto a plate and lightly dab each turnover to coat.
6. Air Fry to Perfection
- Preheat your air fryer to 180°C (355°F). Place the turnovers in the basket, leaving enough room for air circulation and puffing.
- Cook for 10 minutes or until the turnovers are golden and flaky.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your bacon and cheese turnovers with:
- A fresh fruit salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
- A frothy latte or cappuccino for the ultimate breakfast treat.
- Your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, honey mustard, or hot sauce.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Cooking Alternatives:
- If you don’t have an air fryer, bake the turnovers in a preheated oven at 200°C (390°F) for about 14 minutes.
- Make It Crispier:
- If you prefer extra-crispy bacon, pan-fry it for 1-2 minutes before placing it in the pastry.
- Frozen Turnovers:
- Cooking pre-frozen turnovers? Air fry at 180°C (355°F) for 14-16 minutes. Check at the 14-minute mark.
- Calorie Adjustments:
- Opt for leaner bacon, a milk wash instead of egg, or low-fat puff pastry to reduce calories.
- Storage and Reheating:
- To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Warm in the air fryer at 180°C (355°F) for 3-4 minutes for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Air Fryer Bacon and Cheese Recipe
Duration:
Course: Breakfast, Appetizer
Cuisine: British
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 257 kcal
Ingredients:
- 320g Ready-Rolled Puff Pastry Sheet
- 6 Smoked Bacon Medallions
- 50g Grated Cheese (Cheddar and Mozzarella)
- 50g Cream Cheese
- 1 Medium Egg
- Optional: Sprinkle of Sage or Black Pepper
Instructions:
- Remove puff pastry from the fridge 15 minutes before use.
- Whisk the egg in a small bowl.
- Combine grated cheese and cream cheese in a bowl. Add a pinch of pepper if desired.
- Roll out the puff pastry and cut it into 6 equal pieces.
- Spread the cheese mixture diagonally across each pastry square.
- Place one bacon medallion on top of the cheese mixture.
- Fold the pastry into triangles and seal the edges with a fork.
- Brush the turnovers with the beaten egg.
- Air fry at 180°C (355°F) for 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm with your favorite sauce or sides.