Bacon and Rotel Cups
Bacon and Rotel Cups are a flavorful and easy-to-make appetizer featuring crispy turkey bacon cups filled with a spicy, cheesy Rotel tomato mixture. Perfect for parties or snacks, these bite-sized treats combine smoky, savory, and cheesy flavors in every bite.
Servings: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 12 slices turkey bacon (or any -friendly bacon alternative)
- 1 can (10 oz) Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a -certified cheese alternative)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- chopped fresh cilantro or parsley optional, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Bacon Cups
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut each turkey bacon slice in half to get 24 smaller strips. Lightly grease or spray a muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray. Press one half-slice of bacon along the sides of each muffin cup, overlapping slightly to form a cup shape. Bake the bacon cups for about 10-12 minutes until they start to crisp but remain pliable.
Mix the Filling
- While the bacon cups are baking, combine the drained Rotel tomatoes and green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Mix until well combined and smooth.
Fill and Bake the Cups
- Remove the muffin tin from the oven once the bacon cups are partially cooked. Spoon the cheese and Rotel mixture into each bacon cup, mounding slightly on top. Return the tin to the oven and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the bacon cups are crisp.
Cool and Serve
- Let the bacon and Rotel cups cool in the muffin tin for about 5 minutes. Carefully remove them using a small spatula or butter knife. Garnish with chopped cilantro or parsley if desired and serve warm.
Equipment
- Muffin Tin
- Medium Bowl
Notes
Use turkey bacon or a -certified alternative that crisps well without burning. Avoid overfilling the cups to prevent spillage. Soften cream cheese if too firm for easier mixing. Use a non-stick muffin tin or silicone liners to ease removal. Let cups cool slightly before removing to avoid breakage. Adjust spice level by choosing mild or hot Rotel or adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Variations include swapping cheeses, adding protein like ground turkey or sausage, or making a vegetarian version with zucchini or mushrooms. Serve with ranch or yogurt-based dip for contrast. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in oven to retain crispiness. These cups also freeze well.