Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
This Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe combines crispy bacon, melty mozzarella, and golden breadcrumbs for the ultimate appetizer. Perfectly crunchy on the outside and irresistibly cheesy inside, these indulgent snacks are ideal for parties, game days, or whenever you crave something bold, smoky, and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 12 –16 mozzarella sticks string cheese or block mozzarella, cut into 3–4" sticks
- 12 –16 thin slices of bacon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Optional: 2–3 tablespoons grated Parmesan chopped parsley or basil, toothpicks
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Cheese and Bacon
- Unwrap mozzarella sticks and pat them dry. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lay bacon on a baking sheet and pre-cook for 6–8 minutes, just until slightly rendered but still flexible.
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
- Prepare three shallow bowls:
- Flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Beaten eggs with 1 tablespoon of milk.
- Panko breadcrumbs combined with remaining seasonings and optional Parmesan.
Step 3: Wrap and Coat
- Wrap each mozzarella stick tightly in a slice of bacon, overlapping edges. Secure with a toothpick if needed. Coat each wrapped stick in flour, dip in egg wash, and roll in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more.
Step 4: Freeze Before Cooking
- Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from melting too quickly when cooked.
Step 5: Cook Your Way
- Deep Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry 3–4 sticks at a time for 2–3 minutes, turning until golden and crispy.
- Oven Bake: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet. Bake 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp.
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Air fry for 8–12 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and the bacon is crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let rest for 1 minute before serving. Pair with marinara, garlic ranch, or spicy honey mustard dipping sauces.
Notes
- Freezing Tip: Always freeze before frying or baking—this prevents cheese leakage.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble and freeze for up to 1 month. Cook directly from frozen.
- Reheating: Reheat in an air fryer or oven until crisp; avoid microwaving.
- Variations: Try pepper jack for spice, add a smear of pesto before wrapping, or swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds for a keto option.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve on a platter with dipping sauces and garnish with chopped herbs and grated Parmesan.