Looking for the perfect appetizer or game-day snack? Look no further than BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks. These crispy, cheesy, smoky treats are sure to be a hit at any gathering. With the rich flavor of bacon, the gooey goodness of mozzarella, and a smoky BBQ glaze, every bite will be an irresistible explosion of flavor. The best part? They are surprisingly easy to make!
Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing snacks for a family movie night, or just craving something savory, BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate comfort food. The crispy bacon exterior paired with the melted cheese inside is the perfect combination, and the smoky BBQ sauce adds the finishing touch.
Ingredients for BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Let’s get started with the ingredients for this irresistible dish. Here’s everything you need:
- 12 mozzarella sticks
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Toothpicks (for securing)
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)
With these simple ingredients, you’ll be on your way to creating a mouthwatering snack that your guests will rave about. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
How to Make BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Making these BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks is a breeze. In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a plate full of crispy, cheesy goodness. Let’s break down the preparation and cooking process.
Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the bacon becomes crispy and golden while the mozzarella cheese inside melts to perfection. Place a sheet of aluminum foil on a baking tray and lightly coat it with cooking spray or oil. The foil will help catch any grease from the bacon and make clean-up a lot easier.
Wrap the Cheese in Bacon
Now comes the fun part! Take each mozzarella stick and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. Ensure that the bacon fully covers the cheese, leaving no exposed edges. The bacon will cook to a crispy, golden brown, and the mozzarella will melt inside, creating a gooey, delicious filling. Secure the ends of the bacon with toothpicks to prevent it from unraveling while baking. Toothpicks also make it easy to serve your mozzarella sticks, so be sure to keep them on hand for later.
Season and Brush with BBQ Sauce
In a small bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the ingredients are fully incorporated. This BBQ sauce mixture will provide a smoky, tangy glaze that enhances the flavors of both the bacon and the mozzarella.
Using a brush or spoon, coat each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick generously with the BBQ sauce mixture. Be sure to get a good amount of sauce on the bacon, as it will create a flavorful crust when it bakes. The garlic powder adds a subtle savory depth, while the smoked paprika brings a hint of smokiness that perfectly complements the BBQ sauce.
Bake the Mozzarella Sticks
Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. This will help keep the bacon in place as it cooks. Bake the sticks in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure that they cook evenly on all sides.
You’ll know they’re done when the bacon is crispy and golden brown, and the cheese inside is beautifully melted. Keep a close eye on them toward the end of the baking time, as the bacon can cook quickly, and you don’t want it to burn.
Cool and Serve
Once they’re done, let the BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks cool for 2-3 minutes. This brief cooling time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to handle and preventing burns. Serve them warm as a tasty appetizer or snack that’s sure to be the star of the show.
Why You’ll Love BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
There are many reasons to love this recipe, but here are a few that stand out:
- The Ultimate Combination of Flavors: Bacon and cheese are a match made in heaven. Add the smoky BBQ sauce, and you’ve got an irresistible combination that everyone will love.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner, a party, or a game day, BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect snack for any event.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned chefs alike.
- Crowd-Pleasing: These mozzarella sticks are sure to impress your guests. The crispy bacon exterior and gooey cheese interior make them a hit every time.
- Customizable: You can adjust the level of BBQ sauce or add other spices to make this recipe your own. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and find the perfect combination that suits your taste.
Serving Suggestions for BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
While BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are delicious on their own, you can take them to the next level by pairing them with some tasty sides and dipping sauces. Here are a few ideas to consider:
Serve with Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing
Ranch dressing and blue cheese are classic dipping sauces that pair wonderfully with crispy bacon and melted mozzarella. The creamy texture of the dressing complements the richness of the cheese, and the tangy flavors balance out the smoky bacon.
Pair with Fresh Veggies
For a lighter touch, serve your BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks with a side of fresh veggies, such as celery, carrot sticks, or cucumber slices. The crunchiness of the vegetables provides a nice contrast to the crispy mozzarella sticks.
Try a Side Salad
A simple side salad can help round out the meal. Choose a light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette dressing to balance the richness of the mozzarella sticks.
Nutritional Information for BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Let’s take a look at the nutritional information for this tasty snack. Each serving of BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks contains approximately:
- Calories: 220 kcal per serving
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
While these mozzarella sticks are on the indulgent side, they’re a great choice for an appetizer or snack when enjoyed in moderation. The bacon provides a good amount of protein and healthy fats, while the mozzarella adds calcium and essential nutrients.
Variations of BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Looking to mix things up? Here are a few variations to try:
- Add Jalapeños for Spice: For an extra kick, try adding thinly sliced jalapeños inside the bacon wrap. The heat from the peppers pairs wonderfully with the smoky BBQ sauce.
- Try Different Cheeses: While mozzarella is classic for this recipe, you can experiment with other types of cheese like cheddar, pepper jack, or even gouda for a unique twist.
- Use Sweet BBQ Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter flavor profile, opt for a sweet BBQ sauce, such as honey BBQ or a maple-infused sauce. The sweetness will complement the smoky bacon and gooey cheese beautifully.
FAQs About BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Can I Make These Mozzarella Sticks Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks in advance. Simply wrap the cheese in bacon, secure with toothpicks, and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. When ready to cook, just follow the baking instructions.
Can I Freeze BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks?
Absolutely! You can freeze these mozzarella sticks before or after baking. To freeze before baking, place the wrapped sticks on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen when ready to serve. To freeze after baking, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
Can I Make These Without Toothpicks?
While toothpicks help keep the bacon wrapped around the mozzarella, you can skip them if you prefer. Just make sure the bacon is tightly wrapped around the cheese to prevent it from unwrapping during cooking.
What BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. A classic smoky BBQ sauce works great, but you can experiment with different flavors, such as spicy or tangy varieties, depending on your personal preference.
Conclusion
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate snack that combines crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a smoky BBQ flavor. Whether you’re serving them at a party, game day, or just as a fun appetizer, they’re sure to be a hit. The crispy bacon exterior and melted mozzarella center make for the perfect bite every time.
So, grab your mozzarella sticks, wrap them in bacon, and enjoy the incredible flavors of this mouthwatering dish. Try it today, and experience the irresistible combination of bacon, cheese, and BBQ sauce in every bite.
Related Recipes You’ll Love:
- Ooey Gooey Bacon Cheeseburger Pizza Pockets
- Cheesy Pepperoni Stromboli
- Garlic Butter Bacon Alfredo Pizza Twists
These delicious recipes will complement your BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks and take your meals to the next level!
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BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks – Easy & Irresistible
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect combination of smoky bacon and gooey cheese. Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, they’re ideal for game days, parties, or as a mouthwatering snack.
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella sticks
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Toothpicks (for securing)
- Cooking spray or oil (for greasing)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lightly grease it with cooking spray or oil.
- Wrap the Cheese: Wrap each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon, ensuring it fully covers the cheese. Secure the ends with toothpicks to prevent unraveling.
- Season and Brush: In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Brush each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick with the BBQ sauce mixture for a smoky, flavorful coating.
- Bake: Place the wrapped mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let them cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Enjoy these crispy, cheesy, smoky BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or game-day snack!
Notes
- Make sure to secure the ends of the bacon with toothpicks to prevent the bacon from unwrapping during cooking.
- You can add a little extra BBQ sauce on top after baking for added flavor.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce mixture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sticks
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Keywords: BBQ Mozzarella Sticks, Bacon-Wrapped Cheese Sticks, Cheesy Bacon Appetizer, BBQ Bacon Snacks, Crispy Mozzarella Sticks, Game Day Snacks