BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate indulgence, combining crispy bacon, gooey mozzarella, and smoky BBQ flavors into one irresistible snack. Perfect for parties, game nights, or anytime you crave a savory, cheesy treat, these mozzarella sticks take the classic appetizer to a whole new level. Whether baked or fried, they offer a satisfying crunch with every bite, making them an instant crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and make your taste buds dance with excitement!
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Oil for frying (if deep-frying)
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
Preparation:
Step 1: Freeze the Cheese Sticks
Before wrapping, place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from melting too quickly during cooking.
Step 2: Season and Wrap with Bacon
In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture onto each mozzarella stick. Wrap each cheese stick tightly with a slice of bacon, securing both ends with a toothpick. Brush each wrapped mozzarella stick with a light coating of BBQ sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese
Step 4: Coat the Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Roll each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the panko-Parmesan mixture. Repeat for all sticks, ensuring even coverage.
Step 5: Cooking Methods
Option 1: Deep-Frying
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot.
- Fry each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Option 2: Baking
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the sticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crispy.
Option 3: Air Frying
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place sticks in a single layer and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Variation:
- Spicy Version: Add extra cayenne pepper or brush with a spicy BBQ sauce before baking.
- Sweet & Smoky: Use a honey BBQ sauce for a slightly sweeter flavor.
- Herb-Infused: Mix Italian seasoning into the panko breadcrumbs for extra herbaceous notes.
- Jalapeño Popper Style: Wrap a thin slice of jalapeño inside the bacon before breading.
Cooking Notes:
- Freezing the mozzarella sticks before cooking is crucial to prevent them from melting too quickly.
- If baking, place the mozzarella sticks on a wire rack for better airflow and crispiness.
- Use thick-cut bacon to ensure it holds its shape during cooking.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with a side of crispy fries or coleslaw for a satisfying snack.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs for an extra crispy coating.
- Let the bacon-wrapped sticks rest for a few minutes after cooking to prevent burns from hot cheese.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like pepper jack or cheddar for unique flavors.
- To make ahead, prepare and freeze before frying or baking.
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus 30 minutes freezing time)
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 320
Protein: 18g
Sodium: 600mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I make these ahead of time? A: Yes! You can assemble and freeze them for up to a month. Cook straight from frozen.
Q: What’s the best way to keep them crispy? A: Using panko breadcrumbs and baking on a wire rack helps maintain crispiness.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon instead? A: Absolutely! Just keep in mind that turkey bacon tends to cook faster, so adjust your time accordingly.
Conclusion:
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate fusion of crispy, smoky, and gooey goodness. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, these indulgent treats will have everyone reaching for more. Perfect for parties or a fun snack, they deliver a punch of flavor in every bite. Try different variations and enjoy this delicious twist on a classic favorite!
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Total Time: 40-45 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 12 slices of thick-cut bacon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Oil for frying (if deep-frying)
- Toothpicks (for securing bacon)
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1: Freeze the Cheese Sticks
Before wrapping, place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from melting too quickly during cooking.
Step 2: Season and Wrap with Bacon
In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture onto each mozzarella stick. Wrap each cheese stick tightly with a slice of bacon, securing both ends with a toothpick. Brush each wrapped mozzarella stick with a light coating of BBQ sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan cheese
Step 4: Coat the Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Roll each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the panko-Parmesan mixture. Repeat for all sticks, ensuring even coverage.
Step 5: Cooking Methods
Option 1: Deep-Frying
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot.
- Fry each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on a paper towel to remove excess oil.
Option 2: Baking
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the sticks on a wire rack over a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until bacon is crispy.
Option 3: Air Frying
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place sticks in a single layer and air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Notes
- Freezing the mozzarella sticks before cooking is crucial to prevent them from melting too quickly.
- If baking, place the mozzarella sticks on a wire rack for better airflow and crispiness.
- Use thick-cut bacon to ensure it holds its shape during cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 18 g