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 melted cheese with the savory crunch of crispy bacon. As a fan of comfort food, I can confidently say that this dish is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The history of mozzarella sticks dates back to Italian cuisine, where they were first enjoyed as a simple snack. However, the addition of bacon elevates this classic treat to a whole new level, making it a favorite among food lovers everywhere.

People adore Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks not just for their incredible taste, but also for their delightful texture. The contrast between the crispy bacon and the soft, stretchy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them perfect for parties, game days, or even a cozy night in. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!

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

First things first, let’s get our mozzarella sticks ready. I like to use string cheese for this recipe because it’s perfectly portioned and melts beautifully.

1. Take the mozzarella sticks out of the packaging and place them on a plate. If they are too soft, you can freeze them for about 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape during frying.

Wrapping the Mozzarella Sticks

Now comes the fun part—wrapping the mozzarella sticks in bacon!

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will be the temperature for baking the sticks after frying.
2. Take a slice of bacon and cut it in half. You want each piece to be long enough to wrap around the mozzarella stick.
3. Starting at one end of the mozzarella stick, wrap the bacon around it tightly, overlapping slightly as you go. Make sure to cover the entire stick. Repeat this for all the mozzarella sticks.

Breading the Mozzarella Sticks

Now that our mozzarella sticks are wrapped in bacon, it’s time to bread them. This step adds a delicious crunch!

1. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until they are well combined. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. Take a bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick and roll it in the flour, making sure it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
3. Next, dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s completely covered.
4. Finally, roll the stick in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Repeat this process for all the sticks.

Frying the Mozzarella Sticks

Now we’re ready to fry! This step is crucial for achieving that crispy, golden exterior.

1. In a large, deep skillet or pot, pour enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom by about 1 inch. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and bubbles, it’s ready.
2. Carefully place a few mozzarella sticks in the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried mozzarella sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Repeat the frying process until all the mozzarella sticks are cooked.

Baking the Mozzarella Sticks

After frying, we’ll give the mozzarella sticks a quick bake to ensure the cheese is perfectly melted.

1. Once all the sticks are fried, place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for about 5-7 minutes. This will help the cheese inside melt and become gooey.
3. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook. You want that perfect melty center!

Serving the Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Now that our cheesy bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks are ready, it’s time to serve them up!

Conclusion:

In summary, 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 cheesy delights will surely impress your friends and family. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these mozzarella sticks with a zesty marinara sauce for dipping, or even a spicy ranch dressing for an extra kick. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist, or even add some jalapeños for a bit of heat. You could also try wrapping them in prosciutto for a gourmet touch or using turkey bacon for a lighter option. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and share your experience! I would love to hear how your Cheesy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks turn out and any variations you come up with. Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag your friends; they’ll definitely want to join in on the cheesy goodness! So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a snack that’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!

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