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Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Appetizer Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 67 reviews

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.

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. Arrange the Sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks spaced apart on the wire rack to ensure they bake evenly without sticking together.
  8. Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the sticks with cooking spray or drizzle a little oil for crispiness during baking.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
  11. Cool Before Serving: Let the mozzarella sticks rest for a few minutes after cooking to avoid burning and allow the cheese to settle.
  12. 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.

Keywords: bacon wrapped mozzarella sticks, mozzarella sticks recipe, bacon appetizer, baked mozzarella sticks, party appetizers, crispy cheese sticks

Find it online: https://tastygenius.com/bacon-wrapped-mozzarella-sticks-the-ultimate-appetizer-recipe/