BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Description:

A smoky, cheesy delight, these BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks combine the gooey goodness of melted cheese with the crispy, salty perfection of bacon. Brushed with BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy kick, they make the perfect appetizer or party snack!

Ingredients:

• 8 mozzarella sticks
• 8 slices of bacon
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Toothpicks (to secure the bacon)

Optional Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar (for a sweeter glaze)
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (for heat)
• Ranch or marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions:

1. Prep the Mozzarella Sticks:

1. Place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This helps prevent them from melting too quickly.

2. Wrap with Bacon:

1. Wrap each mozzarella stick with one slice of bacon, ensuring full coverage.
2. Secure the ends with a toothpick to hold the bacon in place.

3. Add Seasoning & BBQ Sauce:

1. In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Brush each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick with the BBQ sauce mixture.

4. Cook to Perfection:

• Oven Method:
  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place a wire rack over a baking sheet.
  2. Arrange the sticks on the rack and bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crispy.
  3. Brush with additional BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes of baking.
• Air Fryer Method:
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Arrange the mozzarella sticks in a single layer and cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Grill Method:
  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates.
  2. Cook the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks for 4-5 minutes per side, brushing with more BBQ sauce as they cook.

5. Serve & Enjoy:

1. Let them cool slightly before serving (the cheese will be molten hot).
2. Serve with extra BBQ sauce, ranch, or marinara for dipping.

Tips for Success:

• Freeze the cheese: This helps prevent excessive melting before the bacon crisps up.
• Use thin-cut bacon: Cooks more evenly and crisps up faster.
• Brush BBQ sauce in layers: For deeper flavor, apply an extra coat in the last few minutes of cooking.

Recommended Pairings:

• Serve alongside crispy fries or onion rings.
• Pair with a light, tangy coleslaw to balance the richness.
• Enjoy with a chilled beer or refreshing lemonade.

Nutrition (Per Serving – 1 Mozzarella Stick):

• Calories: ~200
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Sodium: ~450mg

These BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are a must-try for cheese and bacon lovers—gooey, crispy, and packed with smoky BBQ flavor! Perfect for game nights, BBQs, or any time you need a crowd-pleasing snack.