BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Snack
When it comes to appetizers, few things are as satisfying as the combination of melted cheese and crispy bacon. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing snack with a twist, BBQ bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks are the perfect choice. These savory treats are easy to make and are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a backyard barbecue, or simply want a tasty snack for yourself, this recipe will not disappoint.
Ingredients
For the mozzarella sticks:
- 12 mozzarella sticks
- 12 slices of bacon
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce
- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
For the dipping sauce:
- 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon of smoked paprika
Steps
Step 1: Preparing the mozzarella sticks
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a small bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Wrap each mozzarella stick tightly with a slice of bacon, making sure to cover the entire length of the stick.
Brush the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks with the BBQ sauce mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Step 2: Baking the mozzarella sticks
Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Keep an eye on them as the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the bacon and the type of mozzarella sticks you are using.
Step 3: Making the dipping sauce
In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Transfer the dipping sauce to a serving bowl and set aside.
Variations
While the classic BBQ bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks are delicious on their own, you can also experiment with different flavors to suit your taste. Here are a few variations you can try:
1. Spicy Jalapeno:
Add a slice of pickled jalapeno to each mozzarella stick before wrapping it with bacon. The combination of spicy jalapeno, melted cheese, and smoky bacon is a match made in heaven.
2. Italian Style:
Sprinkle each mozzarella stick with Italian seasoning, dried oregano, and grated Parmesan cheese before wrapping it with bacon. Serve with marinara sauce for dipping.
3. Sweet and Tangy:
Instead of using regular BBQ sauce, try using a sweet and tangy variety. The hint of sweetness will complement the salty bacon and creamy mozzarella perfectly.
Tips
To ensure the mozzarella sticks are evenly cooked and the bacon is crispy, make sure to:
1. Use thin-cut bacon:
Thin-cut bacon cooks faster and gets crispier, allowing the mozzarella sticks to cook evenly.
2. Secure the bacon with toothpicks:
After wrapping each mozzarella stick with bacon, secure the ends with toothpicks to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
3. Serve immediately:
Mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven when the cheese is still gooey and the bacon is crispy.
Conclusion
BBQ bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks are a delightful twist on a classic snack. The combination of melted cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy BBQ sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving them at a party or indulging in a solo snack, these mozzarella sticks are sure to satisfy your cravings. Get creative with different variations and enjoy the deliciousness!
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: While mozzarella sticks are the traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as cheddar, pepper jack, or even brie for a gourmet twist.
Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just make sure to remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature before baking.
Q: Can I grill these instead of baking them?
A: Absolutely! If you prefer the smoky flavor of the grill, you can cook the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks on a preheated grill. Just make sure to use indirect heat and turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: While these mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven until heated through and the cheese is melted.
