The Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log is a delicious and satisfying treat combining creamy goat cheese and crispy, flavorful bacon into one irresistible bite. This appetizer is perfect for sharing, with a lovely mix of smooth cheese and smoky bacon wrapped into a neat log, making it easy to slice and enjoy.
I love making this appetizer when friends come over because it always gets compliments and disappears fast! The combination of tangy goat cheese with the crunchy bacon is something I find myself craving again and again. Plus, it’s simple to prepare ahead of time, which means less stress when guests arrive.
My favorite way to serve it is with an assortment of crackers and some fresh fruit on the side—it balances out the richness and makes for a pretty-looking platter. This appetizer brings people together around the snack table and starts conversations with every bite, making any gathering feel warm and welcoming.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Bacon
- Thick-cut bacon is the best choice here because it crisps up nicely while staying juicy. If you want to skip pork, turkey bacon can work, though it’s less fatty and flavorful.
- Goat Cheese
- The tangy creaminess of goat cheese sets this appetizer apart. If goat cheese isn’t your favorite, softened cream cheese or ricotta mixed with a little lemon zest can be a mild substitute.
- Fresh Herbs
- Parsley and thyme add brightness and freshness. If you can’t get fresh herbs, dried versions work but use about half the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Honey (Optional)
- A small drizzle of honey balances the salty bacon with a touch of sweetness. Feel free to leave it out if you prefer savory only.
How Do You Make a Bacon ‘Mat’ to Wrap the Cheese Log?
This step is key for keeping the cheese filling wrapped tightly in bacon. Here’s how to do it:
- Lay bacon slices side by side on a baking sheet with a slight overlap.
- Try to keep the edges close so the bacon will hold together when rolled.
- Spread the cheese mix evenly over the bacon, leaving a small edge free.
- Roll the bacon carefully over the filling, tucking as you go to keep it tight.
- If needed, secure the log with toothpicks before baking.
Take your time here—it helps the bacon cook evenly and keeps your cheese log from falling apart. Baking seam side down also seals everything in neatly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – big enough to lay out the bacon slices flat and roll the log without spilling.
- Parchment paper or foil – makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
- Mixing bowl – for blending the cream cheese, goat cheese, herbs, and spices smoothly.
- Spatula or spoon – to spread the cheese mixture evenly over the bacon.
- Sharp knife – for slicing the finished log into perfect appetizer rounds.
- Toothpicks (optional) – helpful to hold the log together if it feels loose when rolling.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers to the cheese mix for a sweet, tangy twist.
- Swap fresh thyme with rosemary or sage for a different herb flavor that pairs well with bacon.
- Include finely chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts in the cheese filling for a crunchy texture contrast.
- For a spicy kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeño into the cheese blend.
Million Dollar Bacon Goat Cheese Appetizer Log
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bacon & Cheese Log:
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup cooked crumbled bacon (reserved from the initial bacon slices)
- 1 tsp honey (optional for a touch of sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, plus an additional 5 minutes to cool. It’s a quick and impressive appetizer that comes together easily!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare The Oven And Bacon Mat:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Lay the 8 slices of bacon side-by-side on the sheet, overlapping them slightly to create a “mat” that can wrap around the cheese filling.
2. Mix The Cheese Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, crumbled goat cheese, chopped parsley, thyme, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and honey if using. Stir the mixture well until everything is evenly blended.
3. Assemble The Log:
Spread the cheese mixture evenly across the bacon mat, shaping it into a log while leaving about 1 inch of bacon free on one side. Carefully roll the bacon around the filling, using the free edge to seal the log. If needed, secure the roll with toothpicks to hold it together.
4. Bake And Garnish:
Place the log seam-side down on the baking sheet. Sprinkle the reserved crumbled bacon on top, gently pressing so it sticks. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the cheese filling is warmed through and lightly golden. Let the log cool for about 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Serve:
Slice the log into 1-inch rounds and serve warm with crackers, sliced baguette, or fresh vegetables. Garnish with extra thyme or parsley sprigs for a fresh touch.
Can I Use Regular Cheese Instead of Goat Cheese?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, cream cheese alone works well or you can try a mix of cream cheese and feta for a similar tangy flavor. Just make sure the cheese is soft and spreadable.
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the bacon mat and cheese filling, then assemble the log and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours and bake just before serving to keep it fresh and delicious.
What’s The Best Way To Store Leftovers?
Wrap leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Freeze The Bacon Goat Cheese Log?
Freezing is not ideal because the texture of the cheeses and bacon can change after thawing. If you do freeze it, wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently.