Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Appetizer Recipe

Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate indulgence that combines the rich, gooey goodness of mozzarella with the savory crunch of bacon. As a fan of comfort food, I can confidently say that this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for parties, game days, or simply a cozy night in. The history of wrapping cheese in bacon may not be well-documented, but it certainly has become a beloved trend in modern cuisine, showcasing the delightful marriage of flavors and textures.

People love these Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks not just for their irresistible taste, but also for their satisfying crunch and melty interior. The convenience of this recipe makes it even more appealing; with just a few ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will have everyone coming back for more. So, let’s dive into this delicious recipe and discover how to create these mouthwatering bites that are sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella sticks
• 12 slices of bacon
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Vegetable oil (for frying)
• Marinara sauce (for dipping)

Preparing the Mozzarella Sticks

1. **Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks**: Start by placing the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This step is crucial as it helps the cheese maintain its shape during frying. If you skip this, you might end up with a gooey mess instead of perfectly melted cheese. 2. **Prepare the Bacon**: While the mozzarella sticks are freezing, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take the bacon slices and cut them in half. This will give you 24 pieces, which is perfect for wrapping each mozzarella stick.

Setting Up the Breading Station

3. **Prepare the Breading Ingredients**: In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station: – In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. – In the second bowl, beat the two large eggs until well combined. – In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. 4. **Coat the Mozzarella Sticks**: Once the mozzarella sticks are frozen, take them out of the freezer. – First, roll each stick in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. This helps the egg adhere better. – Next, dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. – Finally, roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. Repeat this process for all mozzarella sticks.

Wrapping the Mozzarella Sticks with Bacon

5. **Wrap with Bacon**: Now comes the fun part! Take a piece of bacon and start wrapping it around each breaded mozzarella stick. Make sure to overlap the bacon slightly to cover the entire stick. This will not only add flavor but also help keep the cheese from leaking out during cooking. 6. **Secure the Bacon**: If you find that the bacon isn’t staying in place, you can use toothpicks to secure the ends. Just be sure to remove them before serving!

Cooking the Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

7. **Prepare for Baking**: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks on the baking sheet, making sure they are spaced out evenly. 8. **Bake the Sticks**: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, as oven temperatures can vary. 9. **Fry for Extra Crispiness (Optional)**: If you want to take it a step further, you can fry the sticks after baking for an extra crispy texture. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add a few sticks at a time, frying for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Assembling and Serving

10. **Prepare the Marinara Sauce**: While the mozzarella sticks are baking or frying, you can prepare your dipping sauce. If you’re using store-bought marinara, simply heat it in a small saucepan over low heat. If you want to make your own, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, and Italian herbs in a saucepan and simmer for about 15 minutes. 11. **Serve the Mozzarella Sticks**: Once the mozzarella sticks are done, let them cool for a minute or two. This will help prevent burns from the hot cheese. Arrange them on a serving platter and serve with the warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping. 12. **Enjoy!**: Gather your friends or family around and dig into these cheesy, crispy, and oh-so-delicious bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks. They’re

Conclusion:

In conclusion, these Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their snacking game. The combination of gooey mozzarella, crispy bacon, and a hint of seasoning creates a flavor explosion that is simply irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a movie night, or just craving a delicious treat, these mozzarella sticks will undoubtedly steal the show. For serving suggestions, consider pairing them with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping, or even a spicy ranch dressing to add an extra kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of cheese or even add some jalapeños for a spicy twist. The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes this recipe so versatile! I encourage you to give these Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed! Once you’ve made them, I would love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a picture of your delicious creation. Let’s spread the love for this mouthwatering snack together! Happy cooking! Print