Print

Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 131 reviews

These Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate crispy, cheesy appetizer you need to try. Creamy mozzarella cheese is wrapped in savory bacon, coated with a flavorful seasoned breadcrumb crust, and baked to perfection until crispy and golden. Perfect for parties or game day, serve with tangy marinara sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)
  • 12 slices of bacon

Breading Station

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Other

  • Cooking spray or oil for frying
  • Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks: Place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial to help the cheese hold its shape during cooking and prevent excessive melting.
  2. Prepare the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut each slice of bacon in half to create 24 smaller pieces which will be used to wrap around the cheese sticks.
  3. Set Up the Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls. In Bowl 1, place all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In Bowl 2, whisk the eggs until smooth. In Bowl 3, mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to add flavor to the crust.
  4. Wrap the Cheese: Take each frozen mozzarella stick and wrap it completely with two halves of bacon, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage. This wrapping helps add savory flavor and keeps the cheese intact.
  5. Coat the Wrapped Sticks: Dredge each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick first in the flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally roll it thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs gently to adhere well to the surface.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil, then place a wire rack on top to allow even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
  7. Arrange the Sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks spaced apart on the wire rack to avoid sticking together during cooking.
  8. Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with cooking spray or drizzle with a little oil to help achieve a golden, crispy texture when baked.
  9. Bake the Sticks: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and gooey inside.
  10. Optional Frying Method: If preferred, heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the sticks for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Then, drain on paper towels to remove excess oil for a crispier, fried version.
  11. Let Them Cool: Allow the mozzarella sticks to cool for a few minutes after cooking to avoid burns from hot cheese and ensure they set slightly.
  12. Serve with Marinara Sauce: Arrange on a serving platter and serve with marinara sauce on the side for dipping, enhancing flavor with a tangy contrast.

Notes

  • Freezing the mozzarella sticks is essential to prevent cheese from melting out during cooking.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch in the coating.
  • The baking method is healthier, but the frying option yields a crispier texture.
  • If baking, make sure to use a wire rack on the baking sheet for even crisping.
  • Adjust spices in the breadcrumb coating to customize flavor.
  • Serve immediately for the best texture and gooey cheese pull.

Keywords: bacon wrapped mozzarella sticks, cheesy appetizer, baked mozzarella sticks, party snacks, crispy mozzarella sticks, bacon appetizer

Find it online: https://bitesizedbenny.com/bacon-wrapped-mozzarella-sticks-recipe/