PROSCIUTTO & GOAT CHEESE PHYLLO ROLLS ULTIMATE

Here’s a recipe that will elevate your appetizer game: crispy, flaky pastry giving way to the salty, savory prosciutto and the creamy tang of goat cheese. These Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Phyllo Rolls are the perfect bite-sized indulgence, guaranteed to disappear in minutes at your next gathering. Let’s get rolling and create some appetizer magic together – you’ve got this!

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 4 ounces goat cheese, softened
• 2 ounces prosciutto, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Phyllo Rolls:

• 8 sheets phyllo dough, thawed according to package directions
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Optional: Everything bagel seasoning, for topping

Let’s Talk Ingredients: Your Secret Weapons

Okay, friend, let’s break down why each ingredient in these Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Phyllo Rolls is a star!

• Goat Cheese: I highly recommend a soft, creamy goat cheese for the best texture. If you only have access to a firmer log, let it sit out at room temperature for a bit to soften up nicely. Trust me, it makes a difference in how easily it blends with the other ingredients.
• Prosciutto: Good quality prosciutto is worth the splurge here. The flavor is more complex, and it really elevates the whole appetizer. Don’t be tempted to substitute with regular ham – it just won’t have the same savory punch.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh chives and thyme add a brightness that balances the richness of the cheese and prosciutto. Don’t skimp on these! If you don’t have fresh, you *can* use dried (about 1 teaspoon of each), but fresh is always best.
• Phyllo Dough: This can be a little intimidating if you’ve never worked with it before, but don’t worry! The key is to keep it covered with a damp towel while you’re working to prevent it from drying out and cracking. It’s delicate, but you’ve got this!
• Melted Butter: This is what gives the phyllo its signature flaky texture. Make sure your butter is fully melted but not hot.
• Everything Bagel Seasoning (Optional): Adds a delightful crunch and savory flavor boost. If you are looking for similar recipes that are easy and quick, you might enjoy trying a quick Cranberry Brie Cheese Appetizer.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Let’s Get Rolling!

Prep the Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened goat cheese, chopped prosciutto, chives, thyme, and black pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.

Assemble the Phyllo Rolls:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
2. Lay one sheet of phyllo dough on a clean, flat surface. Keep the remaining phyllo dough covered with a damp towel to prevent it from drying out.
3. Brush the phyllo sheet lightly with melted butter.
4. Place a second sheet of phyllo dough on top of the first and brush with melted butter. Repeat this process until you have stacked 4 sheets of phyllo dough, brushing each layer with butter.
5. Evenly spread the goat cheese mixture over the top layer of phyllo dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border along the edges.
6. Starting from one long edge, tightly roll up the phyllo dough into a log.
7. Brush the outside of the log with melted butter.
8. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls.
9. Place the rolls, cut-side up, on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Brush the tops of the rolls with melted butter and sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning (if using).

Bake to Golden Perfection:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the phyllo rolls are golden brown and crispy.
2. Let the rolls cool slightly on the baking sheet before serving. This will allow the filling to set up a bit.

Troubleshooting Tips and Tricks: Your Phyllo Dough SOS Guide!

Phyllo dough can be a little temperamental, but don’t let that scare you! Here are some common issues and how to tackle them:

• Phyllo Dough is Cracking: This is usually because the dough is drying out. Make sure you keep it covered with a damp (not soaking wet!) towel while you’re working. If it does crack, don’t panic! Just brush it with a little extra butter, and it will be fine.
• Filling is Squeezing Out: You might have used too much filling, or you didn’t roll the log tightly enough. Next time, use a little less filling and make sure to roll it nice and snug.
• Rolls are Burning on the Bottom: Your oven might be running a little hot. Try lowering the temperature by 25 degrees or using a double baking sheet to insulate the bottom.
• Rolls aren’t Crispy Enough: Make sure you’re brushing each layer of phyllo with enough melted butter. The butter is what creates those flaky layers. Also, don’t overcrowd the baking sheet – give the rolls some space so the air can circulate.
• Phyllo Dough is Sticky: This often happens if your phyllo dough wasn’t fully thawed. Let it thaw completely in the refrigerator before using it. If you’re in a hurry, you can try thawing it at room temperature, but keep a close eye on it and use it as soon as it’s pliable.

Variations and Swaps: Make it Your Own!

Want to customize these Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Phyllo Rolls? Here are some fun ideas:

• Cheese: Substitute the goat cheese with cream cheese, ricotta cheese, or even a blend of cheeses. A little bit of parmesan adds a nice salty kick.
• Protein: If you’re not a fan of prosciutto, try using bacon, pancetta, or even cooked and crumbled Italian sausage.
• Herbs: Experiment with different herbs! Rosemary, oregano, or basil would all be delicious.
• Sweet & Savory: Add a touch of sweetness with a drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of dried cranberries.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings: The Perfect Presentation

These Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Phyllo Rolls are perfect as an appetizer for any occasion. Here are some ways to serve them:

• Serve them warm: They are best served warm, right out of the oven.
• Dipping Sauce: Offer a side of honey, balsamic glaze, or fig jam for dipping.
• Party Platter: Arrange them on a platter with other appetizers like Spinach & Artichoke Wonton Cups or a vibrant Charcuterie Wreath.
• Wine Pairing: Pair them with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
• Holiday Gathering: They’re a fantastic addition to your Holiday Appetizers Ultimate spread. For a festive touch, consider adding cranberries and pecans to the filling, similar to a Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball.

Make-Ahead Tips and Storage: Plan Like a Pro

Want to get ahead of the game? Here’s how to prep these Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Phyllo Rolls in advance:

• Assemble Ahead: You can assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance. Store them, covered, in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving.
• Freeze for Later: For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled rolls before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Leftover baked rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. Be aware that they will lose some of their crispness upon reheating.

Final Thoughts: You’re a Phyllo Pro!

See? Working with phyllo dough isn’t so scary after all! These Prosciutto & Goat Cheese Phyllo Rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, and with a little practice, you’ll be whipping them up like a pro. Enjoy! Don’t forget to try the Spicy Cranberry Jalapeno Cream Cheese Dip for your next party!