Crunchy bacon wrapped around gooey mozzarella sticks, seasoned with Italian herbs, and perfect for dipping—your new favorite appetizer!
Servings and Timing:
Prep Time: 5 mins (+ freezing time)
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 4 hrs 25 mins (including freezing)
Servings: 12 sticks
Dietary: Low-carb, Keto-friendly, Gluten-free
Ingredients:
String cheese sticks
Bacon slices
Italian seasoning
Marinara sauce, for serving
Instructions:
Unwrap string cheese sticks and place on a baking sheet. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully solid.
Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil, arrange bacon slices in an even layer, and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
Bake bacon for 12-15 minutes until slightly crisp but still flexible. Remove and cool briefly.
Line another baking sheet with foil. Wrap each frozen cheese stick with a slice of bacon and place on the prepared sheet.
Bake for 5-7 minutes until bacon is crispy and cheese begins to melt slightly.
Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.
Additional Notes:
Freezing cheese prevents it from melting too quickly.
Great for parties or casual snacking!
About This Recipe
These Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks combine smoky bacon and melty cheese into one addictive bite-sized snack. Perfect as a game-day appetizer or a fun weekend treat, they’re guaranteed to disappear quickly!
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Bacon Preparation: Baking bacon partially first ensures crispiness without losing flexibility.
Wrapping Technique: Secure bacon tightly around frozen cheese sticks to avoid unraveling during baking.
Quick Tip: Freeze the cheese sticks overnight for best results.
Ingredient Details and Substitution Tips
Cheese: Mozzarella string cheese is ideal; cheddar sticks or pepper jack cheese can offer a flavorful twist.
Seasoning: Substitute Italian seasoning with smoked paprika, garlic powder, or your favorite herbs.
Dipping Sauce: Marinara is classic, but ranch dressing or spicy mayo also complement well.
Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions
Flavor Enhancements: Try a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Serving Ideas: Pair with crunchy veggies or garlic bread on the side.
Drink Pairing: Goes perfectly with cold beer, sparkling water, or lemonade.
Storage and Make-Ahead Information
Storage: Best enjoyed immediately, but can refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm briefly in oven at 350°F until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Make-Ahead: Bacon can be pre-cooked and refrigerated, cheese sticks kept frozen until ready to assemble and bake.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per stick)
Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 9g
Carbs: 1g
Fat: 12g
Dietary Highlights: Low-carb, gluten-free, keto-friendly snack.
FAQs
Q: Can I cook these in an air fryer?
A: Absolutely! Air-fry at 380°F for about 6-8 minutes until crispy.
Q: Why freeze the cheese first?
A: Freezing prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during baking.
Q: Can turkey bacon be used instead?
A: Yes, but monitor closely as turkey bacon may crisp faster.