Indulge in Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks for Ultimate Flavor

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate party pleaser and game day snack. This irresistible combination of gooey, melty mozzarella and smoky, salty bacon is sure to satisfy your cravings for something indulgent and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just craving a tasty treat, these crispy bites are sure to be a hit.

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Ingredients for Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

To make these crowd-pleasing Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

• 12 mozzarella sticks
• 12 slices of bacon
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying

When it comes to the mozzarella sticks, be sure to use fresh, high-quality mozzarella for the best texture and flavor. For the bacon, you can choose your favorite variety, from classic smoked bacon to peppered or applewood-smoked for an extra punch of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Wrap the Mozzarella

Begin by tightly wrapping each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon. Secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed. Place the wrapped mozzarella sticks in the freezer for 20-30 minutes to firm up and help the bacon adhere.

Prepare the Dredging Station

Set up a dredging station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Sticks

Working one at a time, roll the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks in the flour, dip them in the beaten eggs, and then coat them in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.

Fry Until Crispy

Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the coated mozzarella sticks and fry them in batches, turning occasionally, for 2-3 minutes per side or until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Drain and Serve

Transfer the fried Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks

To ensure your Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks turn out perfectly every time, here are a few tips and tricks:

• Choose a firm, low-moisture mozzarella that can withstand the frying process without oozing out.
• Freeze the wrapped mozzarella sticks for at least 20 minutes to help the bacon adhere and prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.
• Adjust the seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture to your taste, adding more or less garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika as desired.
• For a healthier alternative, you can bake the mozzarella sticks in an air fryer instead of frying them in oil.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect party appetizer or game day snack. Serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli, for a delightful flavor combination. They also pair well with fresh, crisp salads or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.

For a visually impressive presentation, arrange the Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations on Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

While the classic Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are hard to beat, you can get creative with various flavor variations:

• Add a kick of heat by incorporating chopped jalapeños or a spicy seasoning blend into the breadcrumb mixture.
• For a more indulgent twist, try wrapping the mozzarella sticks in prosciutto or pancetta instead of bacon.
• For a vegetarian option, use plant-based bacon alternatives to create delicious meatless mozzarella sticks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my mozzarella sticks soggy?

Soggy mozzarella sticks are often the result of not properly freezing the wrapped sticks before frying or not frying them at a high enough temperature. Ensure the mozzarella sticks are fully frozen before frying, and make sure the oil is hot enough (around 350°F) to create a crispy exterior.

How to enhance mozzarella sticks?

To take your Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks to the next level, try experimenting with different seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture, such as Italian herbs, Cajun spices, or even a touch of lemon zest. You can also try dipping the fried sticks in flavored sauces or drizzling them with a balsamic glaze for added complexity.

Are mozzarella sticks healthy?

Mozzarella sticks, even when wrapped in bacon, are not considered a particularly healthy snack. They are high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the fried breading and cheese. However, they can be enjoyed in moderation as an occasional indulgence. For a healthier option, you can bake the mozzarella sticks in an air fryer instead of frying them.

How to know when mozzarella sticks are done frying?

The Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are done frying when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside. The internal temperature of the mozzarella should reach around 165°F. Keep a close eye on them and flip occasionally to ensure even browning. When they’re done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Bacon-Wrapped Taco Stuffed Meatballs
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
• Million Dollar BBQ Bacon Cheese Dip
• Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate indulgent snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With their gooey, melty center and crispy, bacon-y exterior, these tasty bites are sure to be a crowd-pleasing favorite. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delicious flavors and textures in every bite!

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