BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

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:

  1. Bowl 1: Flour
  2. Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
  3. 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!

 

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BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks


  • Author: Imili Johnson
  • Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

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:

  1. Bowl 1: Flour
  2. Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
  3. 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