Bacon and Egg Galettes

Bacon and Egg Galettes are a rustic, savory pastry dish that offers a hearty, satisfying meal with a gourmet touch. These beautifully folded, open-faced tarts feature flaky pastry filled with perfectly cooked eggs, crispy beef bacon, and a blend of creamy cheese and fresh herbs. Whether served for a leisurely brunch, a cozy dinner, or a festive weekend breakfast, these galettes provide an impressive presentation and a flavor-packed bite that combines comfort with elegance.

What sets galettes apart is their simplicity and versatility. Unlike traditional quiches or tarts that require a mold or pan, galettes are freeform, allowing the dough to be folded casually around the filling. This creates a charming, golden-brown crust that’s crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. The combination of savory beef bacon, rich egg yolk, and melting cheese encased in flaky pastry makes this dish a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bacon and Egg Galettes are a delightful balance of rustic charm and gourmet flavor. You’ll love the contrast between the crisp, buttery pastry and the soft, runny yolk that oozes into the seasoned cheese and bacon filling. It’s a dish that looks impressive on the plate yet is surprisingly easy to make with minimal effort and ingredients. The use of beef bacon ensures that it’s suitable for various dietary preferences, offering that delicious smoky, savory element without compromising dietary guidelines.

These galettes are incredibly adaptable. You can modify the fillings to suit your preferences or what’s available in your kitchen, making them perfect for using up leftovers or seasonal ingredients. Plus, they’re ideal for entertaining—each galette serves as an individual portion, making plating and serving neat and effortless. Whether for a casual family breakfast or a sophisticated brunch gathering, Bacon and Egg Galettes are sure to impress.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 25–30 minutes
• Total time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 individual galettes
• Serving Size: 1 galette

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 480
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 32g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Galette Dough:

• 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ¼ tsp salt
• 3–4 tbsp ice-cold water

For the Filling:

• 4 slices beef bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Gruyère, mozzarella, or cheddar)
• ½ cup crème fraîche or sour cream
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives or parsley
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: thin slices of sautéed onions or mushrooms for added flavor

For Assembly:

• 1 egg yolk mixed with 1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)
• Extra herbs or chili flakes for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Galette Dough

• In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold, cubed butter.
• Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together.
• Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

• While the dough chills, cook beef bacon slices until crisp, then chop into small pieces.
• Mix the crème fraîche with herbs and a pinch of black pepper.
• Grate your chosen cheese and keep it ready. Optional sautéed onions or mushrooms can also be prepared at this stage.

3. Roll Out and Assemble the Galettes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Divide the chilled dough into four equal portions. Roll each into a rough circle about 6–7 inches in diameter.
• Spread a thin layer of herbed crème fraîche in the center of each dough circle, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
• Sprinkle cheese over the crème fraîche, followed by crumbled beef bacon and optional toppings.
• Carefully fold the edges of the dough inward, pleating as you go to create a rustic border. Leave the center open.

4. Add the Eggs

• Crack one egg into a small bowl. Gently slide it into the center of the galette without breaking the yolk. Repeat for each galette.
• Brush the exposed crust edges with the egg wash mixture for a golden finish.

5. Bake the Galettes

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the egg whites are set.
• For a runny yolk, check around 22–25 minutes. For firmer yolks, extend baking time by a few minutes.
• Remove from the oven and let the galettes rest for 5 minutes before garnishing and serving.

Ingredient Background

The galette dough is a simplified version of classic pie pastry, using cold butter and flour to create a light, flaky crust. The technique of minimal handling and chilling ensures a tender result with delicate layers. Beef bacon brings savory, smoky flavor while staying in line with specific dietary requirements, offering a rich, meaty taste without traditional pork.

Eggs serve as both the highlight and protein source, their creamy yolks contrasting beautifully with the other components. Crème fraîche or sour cream adds creaminess and slight tang, acting as a savory base under the cheese. Fresh herbs like chives or parsley bring brightness and a fresh finish that complements the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Technique Tips

• Always chill your dough before rolling to prevent it from becoming tough or sticky.
• Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and even baking.
• To keep yolks centered, crack eggs into a bowl first and gently pour them in once the galettes are nearly fully assembled.
• Don’t overfill the center, as too much filling can spill during baking.
• For a crisper crust, place the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats, then transfer galettes onto the hot surface.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Make mini galettes for bite-sized appetizers at brunch or parties.
• Create one large galette and slice into wedges like a savory tart.
• Add a swirl of hot sauce or pesto over the egg before baking for extra flavor.
• Serve on wooden boards with fresh greens for a rustic presentation.
• Garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an elevated touch.

Additional Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the egg wash—it helps give the crust that golden, glossy finish.
• Keep your butter in the fridge until the last second before incorporating into the dough.
• Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to trim edges if you prefer neater galettes.
• Always preheat your oven fully before baking for consistent heat distribution.
• Let galettes rest slightly before serving to allow the filling to settle for cleaner slicing.

Recipe Variations

• Swap beef bacon for smoked turkey strips or grilled vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• Add sliced tomatoes, sautéed spinach, or caramelized onions for a Mediterranean twist.
• Mix feta cheese or ricotta into the crème fraîche base for a richer flavor profile.
• Use spiced cheese like pepper jack for a slightly fiery variation.
• Experiment with puff pastry instead of traditional dough for a quicker, flakier option.

Freezing and Storage

• Unbaked galettes can be frozen on a baking sheet and stored in freezer bags for up to 1 month.
• To bake from frozen, add an extra 5–10 minutes to the bake time. Add eggs just before baking.
• Store leftover baked galettes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and the crust is crisp.
• Avoid microwaving, as it may make the crust soggy and affect the egg texture.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use whole wheat flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for added fiber.
• Reduce cheese or opt for low-fat varieties to cut down on saturated fat.
• Replace butter in the dough with olive oil for a lighter, heart-healthy alternative.
• Add more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale to boost nutrition.
• Use low-fat Greek yogurt in place of crème fraîche for a protein-rich swap.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Ideal for brunch buffets, served alongside fresh fruit salads and herbal teas.
• Perfect for casual gatherings—serve each galette on a wooden plate with a side of roasted potatoes.
• Offer as part of a savory brunch board with cheeses, olives, and dips.
• Slice into quarters for cocktail-style appetizers at receptions or open houses.
• Pair with tomato soup or fresh green salad for a complete lunch or dinner option.

Special Equipment

• Mixing bowls for dough and filling
• Pastry cutter or fork for blending dough
• Rolling pin for shaping galettes
• Baking sheet and parchment paper
• Pastry brush for applying egg wash
• Sharp knife for garnishing or trimming dough edges

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pastry instead of making the dough?

• Yes, pre-rolled pie crust or puff pastry works well for a faster version.

2. Can I make these galettes ahead of time?

• You can prepare the dough and fillings ahead, assemble just before baking for best results.

3. What’s the best cheese to use?

• Gruyère or cheddar provides a rich melt, but mozzarella offers a milder option. Mix cheeses for more depth.

4. How do I keep the egg yolk runny?

• Check the galette around 22 minutes and remove from oven when whites are set but yolk is still soft.

5. Can I make a vegetarian version?

• Absolutely—swap bacon for sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or peppers.

6. Why is my crust tough instead of flaky?

• Overworking the dough or not chilling it long enough can result in a tougher texture.

7. Can I bake these without a water bath like cheesecake?

• Yes, galettes are baked directly on the sheet, no water bath needed.

8. How do I prevent the egg from leaking out?

• Fold the dough edges securely and keep the filling centered to contain the egg during baking.

Conclusion

Bacon and Egg Galettes offer the perfect fusion of flavor, texture, and presentation in a dish that’s as comforting as it is impressive. With a flaky crust, creamy cheese base, crisp beef bacon, and perfectly baked eggs, these rustic pastries make any meal feel special. Whether served at a brunch buffet or enjoyed as a casual weekend meal, they’re guaranteed to satisfy.

The best part is how easily customizable they are—making them ideal for adapting to seasonal ingredients, dietary preferences, or personal tastes. Once you try your first homemade galette, you’ll see just how simple it is to turn humble ingredients into a memorable, gourmet meal.

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