Bacon-Water Chestnut Roll-Ups
Savory bacon-wrapped water chestnuts glazed with brown sugar offer a crunchy, sweet, and salty appetizer perfect for parties or snacking with friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the water chestnuts and marinate them in soy sauce for at least 1 hour.
- Cut the bacon slices into thirds.
- Wrap 2 or 3 water chestnuts in each piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
- Coat each bacon roll-up in brown sugar.
- Cover a cookie sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Place the bacon roll-ups on the prepared cookie sheet and bake at 400°F until the bacon is cooked and crispy.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or black pepper to the brown sugar before coating the roll-ups. If you're short on time, you can skip marinating the water chestnuts, but it adds a nice depth. For a twist, try using prosciutto instead of bacon for a different texture and taste. This dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with American recipes like Chili Willie Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these roll-ups as a tasty appetizer at your next party or gathering. They pair wonderfully with a refreshing dip like ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a salad or combining with the hearty flavors of Sausage Macaroni Bake (For A Crowd) for a delightful feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bacon-water chestnut roll-ups can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bacon soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon-Water Chestnut Roll-Ups contains roughly 229 calories, with 2g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare these roll-ups in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the bacon-water chestnut roll-ups up to a day ahead of time. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This saves time on the day of your event and allows the flavors to meld together.
What can I substitute for soy sauce?
If you're looking for a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent substitute for soy sauce. Alternatively, coconut aminos can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor. Both options will still provide that savory taste needed for marinating the water chestnuts.
How do I know when the roll-ups are done baking?
The roll-ups are done when the bacon is golden brown and crispy. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes at 400°F. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent burning, as oven temperatures may vary.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).