Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

If you’re ready to take your snack game to the next level, this Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks recipe hits all the right notes—creamy, gooey cheese wrapped in smoky, crispy bacon, with every bite offering a perfect contrast of textures. Whether you’re planning a game day feast, a party appetizer, or simply an indulgent treat for yourself, these outrageously fun bites combine the comfort of classic mozzarella sticks with the rich savoriness bacon brings—making them a hit no matter the occasion!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a few kitchen staples come together to create magic in this recipe. Each ingredient is essential for achieving the best flavor and irresistible texture, so don’t skip a thing.

• Mozzarella sticks: Choose low moisture, part-skim mozzarella for the best stretch and melty texture inside your Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks.
• Bacon: Thin-cut, classic bacon crisps up beautifully and wraps neatly around the cheese, ensuring every bite is full of smoky flavor.
• Toothpicks: Hold the bacon securely in place; wooden toothpicks are best as they’ll survive oven or air fryer heat without melting.
• Optional: black pepper or Italian seasoning: A sprinkle before cooking adds an extra pop of flavor if you want to elevate the taste even more.
• Cooking spray: Lightly coat your baking rack or tray to ensure nothing sticks and cleanup stays hassle-free.

How to Make Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prep the Mozzarella and Bacon

Begin by unwrapping your mozzarella sticks and patting them dry with a paper towel—this helps the bacon crisp up and cling nicely to the cheese. Lay out your strips of bacon on a clean surface, and if they’re extra long, feel free to trim them so they wrap perfectly, edge-to-edge, around each mozzarella stick.

Step 2: Wrap the Cheese Sticks

Carefully wrap each mozzarella stick with a strip of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling tightly to the other. Make sure there’s a slight overlap as you go to prevent gaps (we want that cheese totally enclosed!). Secure the end of the bacon with a toothpick to make sure nothing unravels during cooking.

Step 3: Add Seasoning (Optional)

If you love a punch of extra flavor, now’s the time to sprinkle a little black pepper or your favorite Italian seasoning over the wrapped mozzarella sticks. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it creates a tasty, aromatic crust that’ll make your Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks truly unforgettable.

Step 4: Bake or Air Fry

Place your prepared sticks on a wire rack over a baking tray (or directly in your air fryer basket). Give them a light spray with cooking spray to encourage even crisping. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway. If using an air fryer, check them after about 8-10 minutes. The bacon should be crispy and the cheese just starting to ooze. Watch closely near the end to avoid any cheese explosions!

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Once done, let your Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks cool for a couple of minutes before serving; this helps the cheese set slightly and makes them easier to pick up. Now comes the best part—dig in while they’re hot and the cheese is perfectly melty!

How to Serve Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Garnishes

To brighten up your platter and add a hint of freshness, scatter chopped parsley, basil, or a dusting of grated Parmesan over your Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks. Dip with a side of warm marinara or spicy ranch, and you’ve got a plate that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks pair beautifully with zippy salads—think arugula or tomato—and roasted veggies like broccoli or cauliflower. For a full-on appetizer spread, serve them alongside onion rings or crispy potato wedges for a party your friends will talk about for ages.

Creative Ways to Present

For a wow-worthy display, arrange your sticks upright in a mason jar or small mug, letting the golden bacon peek over the top. You can also thread them onto skewers with cherry tomatoes for an easy-to-eat, handheld snack—perfect for game day grazing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks left over (though it’s rare!), cool them to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them well-sealed prevents the bacon from absorbing unwanted fridge odors.

Freezing

Make a batch in advance by following the wrapping and toothpicking steps, then freeze your uncooked sticks on a parchment-lined tray until solid. Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. When you’re ready, bake or air fry straight from the freezer, adding a couple more minutes to the cook time until golden and bubbling.

Reheating

To bring refrigerated Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks back to life, reheat them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, just until hot and crispy. Microwaving is quick, but the bacon won’t crisp up the same way, so the oven really is your friend here!

FAQs

Can I make Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep and even freeze them before baking, which makes them a dream for parties or last-minute cravings. Just cook straight from frozen whenever you need a cheesy, bacon-filled snack fix.

Will turkey bacon work for this recipe?

Yes, turkey bacon can be substituted if you prefer a lighter option. Keep an eye on it during cooking, as it can crisp up a bit differently and may require less time in the oven or air fryer.

How do I keep the cheese from melting out?

The key is to wrap the bacon snugly with slight overlaps, and always start with cold mozzarella sticks (even freezing them for 30 minutes helps!). Watch them closely while baking and remove as soon as the cheese looks soft but isn’t yet oozing.

Can I add other seasonings or toppings?

Definitely—get creative! Besides black pepper or Italian herbs, try a touch of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a drizzle of honey after baking for a sweet and salty twist.

Do I need to use toothpicks?

While not mandatory, toothpicks make it much easier to keep everything together while cooking and serve as little handles for easy dipping. Just remember to remove them before serving to little ones!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an appetizer with serious wow factor, Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the answer. They’re so easy to whip up, yet feel incredibly special every time you serve them. So gather your ingredients, crank up your oven, and prepare to be the hit of your next gathering—these cheesy, bacon-wrapped bites truly never disappoint!

Print