Irresistible Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes: Your Go-To Holiday Appetizer

Looking for an appetizer that’s both elegant and incredibly delicious, yet surprisingly simple to prepare? These Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes are exactly that! Picture perfect and bursting with flavor, they are destined to become your favorite holiday party bite. Combining the fresh tang of a cherry tomato with the creamy, herby richness of Boursin cheese and the irresistible crunch of bacon, these delightful morsels offer a sophisticated touch to any gathering without demanding hours in the kitchen. They are truly a showstopper that will impress your guests and have them asking for the recipe.

It’s hard to believe how quickly time flies, isn’t it? One minute we’re enjoying summer, and the next, we’re deep into November, already contemplating holiday gift lists and festive meal planning. Life often feels like a whirlwind of activities, commitments, and endless to-do lists. I completely understand – you’re likely navigating a similar schedule, juggling work, family, and everything in between. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, feeling perpetually busy.

For me, a cherished escape from the demands of the world is found in the quiet solace of my kitchen. It’s where I unwind, experiment, and simply “make stuff up.” Last Sunday offered one such blissful “food day,” a much-needed retreat after an exceptionally early 10K race with my daughter (which, I confess, started even earlier than planned because I’d forgotten to adjust the clock after daylight saving – a detail my daughter was less than thrilled about!). But once I was back in my culinary sanctuary, surrounded by ingredients and inspiration, pure joy took over. These kitchen sessions, while often leaving me ridiculously full, always leave me incredibly happy. They also tend to yield the most creative and fun recipes, much like my popular Spinach and Cheese Pretzel Balls, the elegant Salmon Dijon Purses, and now, these delightful little bites of Boursin-infused heaven.

As the holiday season swiftly approaches, bringing with it a renewed sense of excitement and, yes, a bit more busyness, it’s also a time for celebration and gathering. I genuinely love holiday parties – even the more formal corporate events. There’s something special about festive food spreads, from perfectly roasted turkeys to indulgent mac ‘n cheese variations. It’s the spirit of abundance and shared joy that truly captivates me. In that festive spirit, I am thrilled to share these Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes, designed to elevate your party offerings and add a touch of gourmet flair. They’re a fantastic way to jazz up any appetizer table, ensuring your spread is memorable and delicious.

And let’s be honest, everything is better with bacon, right?

While you’re planning your holiday menu, don’t forget to check out another timeless favorite: the Best Stuffing Ever.

Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes

5 from 2 votes

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Authur: Erica

Ingredients

• 2 pints cherry tomatoes
• 3 strips bacon cooked and finely chopped
• 1 5.2 oz pkg Boursin Garlic and Fine Herbs cheese
• ½ c light mayonnaise I use olive oil-based mayo
• 1 t Dijon mustard
• 2 t Italian flat-leaf parsley minced
• pinch kosher salt
• 2 T panko
• 1 T Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
• 1 t extra virgin olive oil

Instructions

• Using a serrated knife, cut the tops off the cherry tomatoes. Use a melon baller to scoop out the flesh and seeds. Place the tomatoes in a rimmed baked sheet. Use the sides of the pan to stabilize any tomatoes that need a little help standing upright. Alternatively, you can slice off a very thin layer off the bottoms to make a little flat area to stabilize the tomatoes so they don’t roll all around.
• Turn on the oven broiler.
• In a bowl, combine the bacon, Boursin, mayonnaise, Dijon, parsley, and salt. Spoon into a ziploc bag, snip a corner, and pipe the bacon-Boursin mixture into the tomatoes.
• In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Sprinkle over the tops of the filled tomatoes. Broil 2 minutes or just until the crumb topping browns lightly. Yield: approximately 40 appetizers.

Why These Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes Are a Must-Try

These elegant little bites aren’t just pretty faces; they pack a punch of flavor and offer incredible convenience, especially during busy times. Here’s why they should be at the top of your appetizer list:

• Explosion of Flavor: The juicy burst of a fresh cherry tomato perfectly complements the creamy, garlicky, and herbaceous Boursin cheese. Add the smoky, salty crunch of bacon, and you have a symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. The hint of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that truly brings all the elements together.
• Visually Stunning: Their vibrant red color, combined with the creamy white filling and golden-brown topping, makes them incredibly appealing on any platter. They look sophisticated and carefully crafted, instantly elevating your spread.
• Easy to Make: Despite their gourmet appearance, these stuffed tomatoes are surprisingly straightforward to prepare. The steps are simple, requiring minimal cooking skills, making them perfect for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: One of their greatest advantages is that much of the preparation can be done in advance. You can hollow out the tomatoes and prepare the filling hours or even a day before, assembling and broiling just before serving. This takes immense pressure off your party day schedule.
• Perfect Party Food: They are bite-sized, mess-free, and easy for guests to enjoy while mingling. They don’t require forks or plates, making them ideal finger food for any casual or formal gathering.

Expert Tips for Crafting the Best Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes

Achieving appetizer perfection is all about the details. Follow these tips to ensure your Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes are an absolute hit:

• Choosing Your Tomatoes: Select firm, ripe cherry tomatoes. They should be vibrant in color and without any soft spots. Uniform size will ensure consistent cooking and a more attractive presentation. Grape tomatoes can also work, but cherry tomatoes typically offer a slightly more rounded shape that’s easier to stuff.
• Hollowing Out the Tomatoes: A small, sharp serrated knife is best for cleanly removing the tops. For scooping, a melon baller is ideal as it creates a neat cavity without piercing the tomato walls. If you don’t have one, a small spoon or even a grapefruit spoon can work. Be gentle! The goal is to remove the watery pulp and seeds while leaving enough flesh to hold the filling.
• Stabilizing Your Tomatoes: The recipe suggests placing them in a rimmed baking sheet, using the sides for support. A clever trick is to very thinly slice a small portion off the bottom of each tomato. This creates a flat base, preventing them from rolling around on your serving platter or baking sheet, ensuring a polished presentation.
• The Filling: Ensure your Boursin cheese is at room temperature before mixing; this will make it much easier to combine with the mayonnaise and other ingredients, resulting in a smooth, creamy filling. When piping, a sturdy Ziploc bag with a snipped corner works wonderfully, allowing for precise and mess-free filling.
• Broiling with Care: The broiler works quickly! Keep a close eye on the tomatoes during the 2 minutes of broiling. The goal is a light golden-brown on the panko topping, not burnt crumbs. Ovens vary, so adjust time as needed. If you’re preparing these ahead, you can assemble them fully and then broil just before serving for that perfect crispy finish.

Delicious Variations to Explore

While the classic Bacon and Boursin combination is divine, don’t hesitate to get creative and experiment with these stuffed tomatoes:

• Cheese Swaps:
  • Other Boursin Flavors: Boursin offers varieties like Black Pepper, Shallot & Chive, or Basil & Chive. Each would lend a unique character to the filling.
  • Goat Cheese: For a tangier, earthier profile, substitute Boursin with a creamy goat cheese, perhaps mixed with a little cream cheese for extra body.
  • Cream Cheese Blend: Softened cream cheese mixed with fresh herbs (chives, dill, basil), garlic powder, and a touch of lemon zest can create a delightful alternative.
• Herb & Spice Additions:
  • Fresh Herbs: Beyond parsley, consider finely chopped chives, dill, basil, or a tiny bit of fresh thyme for added aromatic layers.
  • A Hint of Heat: A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes mixed into the filling can add a welcome subtle kick.
  • Smoked Paprika: A dash of smoked paprika can enhance the savory notes and complement the bacon beautifully.
• Crunchy Topping Alternatives:
  • Crushed Crackers: Finely crushed Ritz or butter crackers can provide a richer, buttery topping instead of panko.
  • Nutty Crunch: For a unique texture, finely chop toasted pecans or walnuts and mix them with the Parmigiano-Reggiano and olive oil.
  • Everything Bagel Seasoning: A sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning before broiling adds fantastic flavor and texture.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and replace its smoky flavor with a pinch of smoked paprika or finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an equally delightful vegetarian appetizer.

Serving and Storage Suggestions

To make the most of your Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes, consider these serving and storage tips:

• Serving: Serve these delightful bites warm, straight from the broiler, for the best texture and flavor. Arrange them artfully on a platter, perhaps garnished with a few fresh parsley sprigs or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper. They pair beautifully with a crisp white wine, sparkling rosé, or even a light craft beer.
• Make-Ahead: The beauty of this recipe is its make-ahead potential. You can hollow out the tomatoes, prepare the filling, and even stuff them hours in advance. Store the stuffed (but un-broiled) tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just before serving, sprinkle with the panko-Parmesan topping and broil. This advanced preparation makes them ideal for entertaining.
• Storage of Leftovers: While best enjoyed fresh, any leftover stuffed tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a warm oven or under the broiler for a minute or two to regain some crispness, though the tomatoes may soften slightly.

These Bacon and Boursin Stuffed Tomatoes are more than just an appetizer; they are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special and memorable. Whether you’re hosting an elaborate holiday feast or just looking for an impressive snack, this recipe offers a perfect blend of ease, elegance, and incredible taste. Enjoy creating and sharing these flavorful bites with your loved ones this season!