Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks combine smoky, crunchy bacon with warm, melted mozzarella cheese for an irresistible appetizer or snack. Quick to prepare and customizable, these cheesy bites are perfect for game days, parties, or cozy nights in.
- Author: Judy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Total Time: 25-30 minutes
- Yield: 8-16 pieces depending on if sticks are halved 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 8 to 16 strips of thin-cut bacon (depending on size and thickness)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Toothpicks (as needed to secure bacon)
Optional Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Prepare the cheese: Cut mozzarella sticks in half if you prefer smaller bites. Lightly dust each stick with all-purpose flour to help the bacon adhere better and prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
- Wrap with bacon: Tightly wrap each mozzarella stick with one or two strips of bacon, depending on size and thickness. Secure the bacon with toothpicks to keep it in place while cooking.
- Preheat and cook: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the bacon-wrapped sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to allow air circulation for even crisping. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the bacon is golden and crispy.
- Cool slightly and serve: Allow the sticks to cool for a few minutes after baking, letting the cheese thicken slightly and the bacon stay crispy. Serve warm for best gooeyness.
Notes
- Choose good-quality, thin-cut bacon for even crispiness.
- Using a wire rack prevents the bacon from cooking in grease, ensuring it crisps evenly.
- A light dusting of flour helps prevent the cheese from oozing out.
- Secure bacon well with toothpicks to avoid unraveling during cooking.
- Watch the oven closely toward the end to prevent burning the bacon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sticks
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: bacon wrapped, mozzarella sticks, appetizer, party snack, baked cheese sticks, crispy bacon