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BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks



Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  1. Triple Threat : Combines gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and bold BBQ flavors.
  2. Easy to Make : Simple ingredients and straightforward prep.
  3. Crowd-Pleasing : A guaranteed hit at gatherings or family dinners.
  4. Customizable : Adjust spice levels or swap sauces for variety.
  5. Make-Ahead Friendly : Prep ahead and bake when ready.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Makes 12–16 sticks

  • 12–16 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or block mozzarella cut into sticks)
  • 12–16 slices of bacon , halved crosswise
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs , beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for dipping)
  • Optional : Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Coating Station

  1. Set up three shallow bowls:
    • Bowl 1 : Flour
    • Bowl 2 : Beaten eggs
    • Bowl 3 : Panko mixed with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper

Step 2: Coat the Mozzarella

  1. Roll each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
  2. Dip into beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.
  3. Coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

  1. Wrap each breaded mozzarella stick with a half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
  2. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Add BBQ Sauce

  1. Lightly brush the bacon-wrapped sticks with BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) .
  2. Bake for 15–20 minutes , flipping halfway, until bacon is crispy and cheese is melty.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with extra BBQ sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing for dipping.