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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Indulge in these crispy bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks that combine gooey, melty cheese with perfectly crisp bacon for an irresistible appetizer. Simple to prepare with a brief chill and quick bake, they’re ideal for game day gatherings, movie nights, or whenever you want a delicious treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Mozzarella cheese sticks (or string cheese)
  • Bacon strips (thin-cut preferred)
  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Dipping sauce (marinara, ranch, or honey mustard)
  • Black pepper (optional, for added flavor)
  • Cooking spray or oil (to prevent sticking)
  • Toothpicks (to secure the bacon)

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or aluminum foil
  • Freezer
  • Knife (for cutting the cheese)

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and lightly coat it with cooking oil to prevent sticking.
  2. Unwrap the mozzarella cheese sticks. If using standard string cheese, cut each piece in half crosswise to create a bite-sized portion.
  3. Wrap each cheese piece with a thin-cut bacon strip in a tight spiral, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage. Secure the bacon in place with a toothpick.
  4. Place the bacon-wrapped cheese sticks in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. This chill step helps the cheese stay intact during baking.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, turning halfway through. For extra crispiness, you can broil for the final minute, but watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
  6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For a fun twist on this classic appetizer, try swapping out regular mozzarella for pepper jack or gouda to introduce a spicy or smoky note. Thin-cut bacon crisps up nicely, but if you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey bacon makes an acceptable substitute though it won’t render as much fat. The freezer step is key to preventing the cheese from oozing out during baking, so do not skip it. These sticks are best served immediately while still warm, showcasing that perfect cheese pull, and any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for a day or two.