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Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Appetizer Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 406 reviews

These Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate appetizer combining crispy, smoky bacon with gooey melted mozzarella cheese. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to perfection, they offer a deliciously indulgent snack perfect for parties or game day. Serve them hot with marinara sauce for a flavorful bite everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Mozzarella Sticks

  • 12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)

Bacon

  • 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 helps them maintain their shape and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during cooking.
  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 mozzarella sticks.
  3. Set Up the Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper; Bowl 2 with whisked eggs; Bowl 3 with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Wrap the Cheese: Take one frozen mozzarella stick and wrap it tightly with two halves of bacon, ensuring the entire stick is covered. Repeat for all sticks.
  5. Coat the Wrapped Sticks: Dip each bacon-wrapped stick into the flour mixture first, then into the egg mixture, and finally roll it in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
  6. Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top to allow heat circulation and even cooking.
  7. Arrange the Sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks spaced apart on the wire rack to prevent them from sticking together during cooking.
  8. Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with cooking spray or drizzle with a bit of oil to help them crisp up while baking.
  9. Bake the Sticks: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese inside has melted.
  10. Frying Option (Optional): For a deep-fried version, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet and fry the sticks for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
  11. Let Them Cool: Allow the mozzarella sticks to cool for a few minutes after baking or frying to avoid burning your mouth when eating.
  12. Serve with Marinara Sauce: Arrange the sticks on a platter and serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping to add a flavorful contrast.

Notes

  • Freezing the mozzarella sticks before wrapping helps maintain their shape and prevents cheese from leaking during cooking.
  • If you prefer extra crispiness, opt for panko breadcrumbs in the coating.
  • Cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil helps achieve a golden crispy crust in the oven.
  • The deep-frying option provides a quicker cooking method and extra crunch but is higher in fat.
  • Serve immediately after cooking for best texture and flavor.

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

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