Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Enjoy a savory and crispy snack with these bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks. Cheese-filled mozzarella sticks are wrapped in smoky bacon, breaded with a flavorful mix of spices, and pan-fried to golden perfection before a brief bake to melt the cheese inside. This appetizer is perfect for parties or a delicious indulgence at home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Cheese & Bacon
- 12 ounces mozzarella sticks
- 8 slices bacon
Breading & Seasoning
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for the final baking step that melts the cheese inside.
- Wrap Mozzarella Sticks: Take each mozzarella stick and wrap one slice of bacon around it, securing the ends with toothpicks to keep the bacon in place during cooking.
- Prepare Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a seasoned coating.
- Beat Eggs: Crack and beat the eggs in a separate shallow bowl for the breading process.
- Place Breadcrumbs: Pour the breadcrumbs into a third shallow bowl, ready for coating.
- Bread the Mozzarella Sticks: Dip each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick first into the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs to cover completely.
- Fry the Sticks: Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Fry the breaded sticks for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Bake to Melt Cheese: Transfer the fried mozzarella sticks onto a baking sheet. Bake them in the preheated oven for 5 to 7 minutes, ensuring the mozzarella melts inside while maintaining crispness outside.
- Serve: Remove toothpicks and serve the hot, crispy bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer or snack.
Notes
- Ensure bacon slices are fully secured with toothpicks to prevent unraveling during frying and baking.
- Use low-moisture mozzarella sticks for best melting results and minimal cheese leakage.
- Adjust frying time if bacon slices are thick cut to avoid undercooking.
- Serve immediately after baking for optimal crispiness and gooey cheese texture.
- Can be paired with marinara sauce, ranch dip, or spicy aioli for dipping.
