Introduction

Bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks are the ultimate appetizer, combining crispy bacon and gooey melted cheese for a crowd-pleasing treat. Whether baked or fried, these flavorful bites are perfect for parties or casual snacking.

Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Appetizer Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)
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
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or oil for frying
Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Freeze the mozzarella sticks for about 30 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
Step 2: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut each bacon slice in half to create 24 pieces.
Step 3: Prepare three shallow bowls: bowl one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, bowl two with whisked eggs, and bowl three with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Wrap each mozzarella stick with two bacon halves, covering it completely.
Step 5: Coat each wrapped stick by dipping it first in flour, then in the egg mixture, and finally rolling it in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to stick.
Step 6: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top.
Step 7: Arrange the breaded sticks on the wire rack, spaced apart.
Step 8: Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with oil.
Step 9: Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Step 10 (Optional): For frying, heat about 2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet and fry the sticks for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
Step 11: Let the mozzarella sticks cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 12: Serve with marinara sauce for dipping if desired.

Tips & Variations

Freeze the mozzarella sticks thoroughly before wrapping to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking.
Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and a lighter texture.
Try adding Italian seasoning or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
For a smoky twist, use smoked bacon instead of regular bacon.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bacon soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and bread the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks in advance, then freeze them. Bake or fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What can I serve with bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks?

They pair wonderfully with marinara sauce for dipping, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli. A fresh side salad also complements the richness of the appetizer.

Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Appetizer Recipe

Print Recipe

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Crispy bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to perfection, making an irresistible appetizer that combines gooey cheese with smoky bacon and a flavorful crunchy crust. Perfect for parties or a satisfying snack, served with marinara sauce for dipping.

Author: Elias
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 12 servings (1 mozzarella stick each) 1x
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)
12 slices of bacon

Breading Station

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
Salt and pepper to taste

Additional

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

Instructions

Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks: Place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for about 30 minutes to help maintain their shape during cooking and prevent cheese from melting too quickly.
Prepare the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut each bacon slice in half to create 24 smaller pieces, which will be used to wrap the mozzarella sticks thoroughly.
Set Up the Breading Station: Arrange three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with all-purpose flour seasoned with salt and pepper; Bowl 2 with whisked eggs; Bowl 3 with breadcrumbs combined with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Wrap the Cheese: Take each frozen mozzarella stick and wrap it completely with two halves of bacon, ensuring the cheese is fully covered to keep it contained while cooking.
Coat the Wrapped Sticks: Dip each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.
Prepare for Baking: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top; this allows heat to circulate for even cooking and prevents sogginess.
Arrange the Sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks spaced apart on the wire rack to ensure they bake evenly without sticking together.
Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with cooking spray or drizzle a little oil for crispiness during baking.
Bake the Sticks: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes until the bacon is crispy and cheese inside is melted and gooey.
Optional Frying Method: For a deep-fried version, heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated mozzarella sticks for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown, then drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Cool Before Serving: Let the mozzarella sticks rest for a few minutes after cooking to avoid burning and allow the cheese to settle.
Serve with Marinara Sauce: Arrange the mozzarella sticks on a platter and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, adding tangy contrast to the savory appetizer.

Notes

Freezing the mozzarella sticks before wrapping and breading helps prevent cheese from leaking out during cooking.
Using a wire rack on a baking sheet ensures even crisping all around the sticks without sogginess.
For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs rather than regular ones.
Cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil on top helps the breadcrumbs brown nicely in the oven.
If frying, be cautious with hot oil and fry in small batches to maintain temperature.
Serve immediately for best taste and texture as mozzarella sticks can become soggy if left to sit too long.

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