Almond Bacon Cheese Crostini

There are times when you know people are coming over for a party or potluck and you plan the menu weeks in advance. Then there are times when a few besties drop by for a glass of wine and a good hang so you need to make something on the fly to nibble. These almond-bacon cheese crostini are the way to go in both instances.

The crowd-pleasing appetizer marries toasted baguette slices with a rich topping blend of melted Monterey Jack, crunchy toasted almonds and smoky bacon, all brought together with a hint of green onion and mayo for just the right touch of richness. Whether you’re hosting holiday guests, stepping up your party spread or simply craving a delicious bite-sized treat, these crostini strike the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Pair them with batch cocktails or serve them to whet appetites before a Thanksgiving dinner or holiday meals.

Ingredients for Almond Bacon Cheese Crostini

• Monterey Jack cheese: For the smoothest texture from this mild cheese, grate it yourself. The pre-shredded stuff has additives that interfere with smooth melting.
• Baguette: Pick up a fresh French baguette from the bakery department to make these little appetizers. You can also make your own homemade baguettes if you have the time.
• Bacon: Cooked and crumbled bacon adds smoky, savory flavor to the topping. The best way to cook bacon is in the oven, but you can also use the stovetop or a microwave.
• Sliced almonds: If not already roasted, toast the nuts first to bring out the best flavor.
• Mayonnaise: Any of the best mayonnaise brands will add richness and creamy texture to the crostini topping.
• Green onions: Stir a little diced scallion into the cheese and bacon topping. Save those root ends; you can store green onion ends in water and they’ll regrow.
• Salt: Just a dash of salt completes the crostini topping. (The bacon also contributes some salty flavor.)

Directions

Step 1: Toast the bread

Place the bread slices on an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 400°F until lightly browned, eight to nine minutes.

Step 2: Make the topping and assemble

In a large bowl, mix the cheese, mayonnaise, crumbled bacon, toasted almonds, green onion and salt. Spread the topping over each of the baguette slices.

Step 3: Bake and serve

Bake the crostini until the cheese melts, seven to eight minutes. Top with chopped chives and additional toasted almonds if desired. Serve warm.

Almond Bacon Cheese Crostini Variations

• Try another cheese: Add more flavor to this hors d’oeuvre by using one or a blend of good melting cheeses, such as cheddar, smoked Gouda, pepper jack, Parmesan and fontina.
• Top with a pickled garnish: Top each crostini with a tiny cornichon or slices of other types of pickles, or a slice of black or green olive.
• Add fresh herbs: Give each crostini a pretty green touch with a fresh leaf of parsley or sage, or a sprig of rosemary or dill.

How to Store Almond Bacon Cheese Crostini

If you have any leftover almond bacon cheese crostini, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a toaster oven or warm oven until crisp and melty.

Can you make almond bacon cheese crostini ahead of time?

These crostini will taste their best if you assemble and bake them just before serving. However, you can get the components prepared in advance to save a little time. Cut the baguette into slices and store them in an airtight bag or container. Mix up the cheese and bacon topping and hold it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days.

Almond Bacon Cheese Crostini Tips

Can you use other types of bread for crostini?

Yes, you can make almond bacon crostini with other kinds of bread. Try making them with small square slices of store-bought cocktail bread. Or, cut long loaves of French or Italian bread into slices; if the slices are huge, cut them in half or quarters. Use a small, homemade bread, such as this mini white loaf. You can even add the topping and almonds to Crispbreads or Wasa crackers.

Can you make this into a dip?

Yes, the almond bacon spread is delicious as a dip with sturdy crackers, pita chips or sliced vegetables. Spread the almond bacon mixture into a small ovenproof dish and bake until it’s warmed through and melty. Garnish with extra sliced almonds, and serve the warm dip with crackers or vegetables.