BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Introduction
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are a delicious and indulgent appetizer that combine the smoky flavors of bacon with the creamy goodness of melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe takes the classic mozzarella stick to a whole new level by adding a crispy bacon coating and a tangy barbecue sauce for a mouthwatering twist. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply want to treat yourself, these BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
To make BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks, you will need the following ingredients:
– 12 slices of bacon
– 12 mozzarella sticks
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Toothpicks
Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. This will create a sweet and tangy glaze for the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks.
3. Take a slice of bacon and cut it in half lengthwise. Place a mozzarella stick at one end of the bacon slice and roll it up tightly. Secure the bacon with a toothpick, piercing it through the overlapping ends of the bacon.
4. Repeat the process with the remaining bacon and mozzarella sticks until all are wrapped.
5. Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each stick generously with the barbecue glaze, making sure to coat all sides.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted and gooey.
7. Remove from the oven and let the mozzarella sticks cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve them warm with extra barbecue sauce for dipping.
Variations
– For a spicy twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the barbecue glaze.
– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique flavor combination.
– Instead of baking, you can also cook the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks on a grill for a smoky flavor.
Tips
– Make sure to use thinly sliced bacon for easier wrapping and quicker cooking.
– Soak the toothpicks in water for a few minutes before using them to prevent them from burning in the oven.
– For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with strips of roasted red pepper or eggplant.
Conclusion
BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that will satisfy any bacon and cheese lover. The combination of crispy bacon, melted mozzarella, and tangy barbecue glaze creates a flavor explosion that is hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a backyard barbecue, or simply craving a savory snack, these mozzarella sticks are sure to be a hit. So go ahead and indulge in this irresistible treat!
FAQs
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
– Yes, you can assemble the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just make sure to brush them with the barbecue glaze right before baking.
2. Can I use frozen mozzarella sticks?
– Yes, you can use frozen mozzarella sticks for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before wrapping them with bacon.
3. Can I use a different sauce instead of barbecue sauce?
– Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different sauces such as honey mustard, buffalo sauce, or even a homemade marinara sauce.
4. Can I bake these in an air fryer?
– Yes, you can cook the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. How do I store leftovers?
– If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Remember to enjoy these BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks in moderation as they are a decadent treat.
