Description
Crispy, salty, and gooey bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks that are ready in under 20 minutes. This recipe uses a protective bacon layer to keep the cheese inside while delivering a restaurant-quality crunch.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12–16 frozen mozzarella sticks
- 12–16 strips thick-cut bacon, cut in half
- All-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten with a splash of water
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Seasoning salt (or mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika)
- Neutral oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
Instructions
- Set up three shallow bowls with flour, beaten egg wash, and panko breadcrumbs. Season the flour and breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Let frozen mozzarella sticks sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften slightly.
- Wrap each mozzarella stick tightly with a half-strip of bacon, spiraling from one end to the other. Secure with a toothpick if necessary.
- Roll each bacon-wrapped stick in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured sticks into the egg wash, ensuring full coverage, and let excess drip off.
- Coat the egg-washed sticks in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the sticks in batches of 3-4 for 2-3 minutes, turning occasionally, until bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from oil and place on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to drain.
- Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
Notes
Keep mozzarella sticks frozen until frying to prevent leakage. Ensure oil temperature stays between 350°F and 375°F. Use a wire rack for draining to maintain crispiness; avoid paper towels. For a baked version, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 sticks per servi
- Calories: 275
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 9
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 10
Keywords: bacon wrapped mozzarella sticks, appetizer, game day food, fried cheese, crispy snacks, party food, 20 minute recipes