BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate snack or party appetizer that will leave your guests speechless and reaching for seconds, look no further than BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe . This crave-worthy creation takes the gooey, cheesy goodness of mozzarella sticks and wraps them in crispy, smoky bacon, then brushes them with sweet and tangy BBQ sauce for a flavor explosion like no other.

Perfect for game nights, cookouts, parties, or even indulgent solo snacking, these cheesy bacon delights combine comfort food with a smoky BBQ twist. They’re incredibly easy to make, deliver huge flavor with minimal ingredients, and the presentation is rustic yet mouthwateringly appealing.

From the stretchy cheese pull to the crispy bacon crunch and that bold BBQ glaze these sticks are destined to be the star of any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks

• 12 slices of bacon (preferably thick-cut for a heartier wrap)

• 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (sweet, spicy, or smoky – your choice!)

• Toothpicks (for securing bacon)

• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick

• Optional: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation:

Step 1: Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks

Before doing anything else, place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 1 hour (or overnight). This is essential so they don’t melt too quickly when cooking. Frozen cheese holds its shape better while the bacon crisps.

Step 2: Wrap the Cheese in Bacon

Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around a frozen mozzarella stick, starting at one end and spiraling to the other. If your bacon slice is short, you can use 1.5 slices per stick. Secure both ends of the bacon with a toothpick.

Step 3: Add Some Spice (Optional)

If you want to spice things up, lightly sprinkle the bacon with smoked paprika, black pepper, or cayenne before cooking. This adds a layer of heat and depth.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon-Wrapped Sticks

You can cook these in a few ways depending on your preference:

Oven Method:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the bacon-wrapped sticks on the rack (this helps the bacon cook evenly and get crisp).

• Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until the bacon is golden and crispy.

Air Fryer Method:

• Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).

• Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks in a single layer.

• Air fry for 8–10 minutes, turning once. Watch closely near the end to prevent cheese from oozing out.

Grill Method (BBQ Lovers’ Favorite):

• Preheat grill to medium-high.

• Place sticks on indirect heat and cover the lid. Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is crispy and cheese is warm.

Step 5: Brush with BBQ Sauce

In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the bacon with your chosen BBQ sauce. This caramelizes on the bacon and gives that smoky-sweet flavor. Brush both sides, and let it cook just a bit longer until sticky and glazed.

Variation:

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños inside the bacon wrap for a spicy, cheesy treat.

• Honey BBQ: Mix honey into your BBQ sauce before brushing for a sweet and smoky glaze.

• Ranch Flavored: Sprinkle with ranch seasoning before baking for extra flavor.

• Stuffed Version: Cut a slit in the mozzarella stick and insert a sliver of pepperoni or sun-dried tomato before wrapping.

• Vegetarian Twist: Use plant-based bacon and cheese for a vegetarian-friendly version.

COOKING Note:

• Don’t skip freezing the cheese sticks! If you use fresh mozzarella or don’t freeze string cheese, they’ll melt into a puddle before the bacon crisps.

• For extra crispiness, broil the sticks for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully!

• Use toothpicks soaked in water if grilling, to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions:

These BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are perfect for dipping. Serve them with:

• Ranch dressing

• Extra BBQ sauce

• Spicy sriracha mayo

• Garlic aioli

• Marinara sauce (for that classic Italian twist)

• Honey mustard

Garnish with a little chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch. Plate them on a rustic wooden board or tray for visual appeal at parties!

Pair with: cold drinks, sliders, chips & salsa, or a fresh salad for balance.

Tips:

• Make a large batch ahead of time and freeze the wrapped sticks until you’re ready to cook.

• Use thin bacon for quicker cooking, or partially pre-cook thick bacon if desired.

• Turn carefully while cooking to avoid breaking the cheese.

• Place sticks seam-side down when baking to prevent unrolling.

• Always allow sticks to cool for 2–3 minutes before serving molten cheese can burn!

Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 1 hour freezing)

Cooking Time: 20–25 minutes

Total Time: About 1.5 hours (including freeze time)

Nutritional Information (per 1 stick, approximate):

• Calories: 220

• Protein: 11g

• Carbohydrates: 3g

• Fat: 18g

• Saturated Fat: 8g

• Cholesterol: 40mg

• Sodium: 500mg

• Fiber: 0g

• Sugar: 2g

Note: Will vary depending on brand of cheese, bacon, and BBQ sauce.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use fresh mozzarella instead of string cheese?

A: It’s best to use string cheese or low-moisture mozzarella, as fresh mozzarella has too much moisture and melts too fast.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?

A: Yes! Assemble and freeze them wrapped in bacon. When ready to cook, bake from frozen—just add a few minutes to the time.

Q: What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

A: Use one that complements your taste. Sweet, spicy, or smoky all work. Homemade BBQ sauce also takes these up a notch.

Q: Can I make this in the air fryer?

A: Absolutely! The air fryer makes them crisp without extra oil. Just don’t overcrowd the basket.

Q: Can I reheat leftovers?

A: Yes. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to bring back crispiness. Microwave works but may make the bacon soft.

Conclusion:

BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the kind of snack that makes people stop, stare, and devour. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, these are a guaranteed hit. Crispy bacon, melty cheese, and sticky BBQ glaze it’s a trifecta of flavor that hits every craving.

They’re easy, impressive, and ridiculously satisfying. Once you try these, they’ll be on repeat in your kitchen for every event. Go ahead and make a big batch you’ll need it!

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