If you’re looking for an appetizer that steals the show, these BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are it! Imagine gooey mozzarella encased in crispy bacon, finished with a sticky, smoky BBQ glaze—pure heaven in every bite. This recipe takes the classic mozzarella stick to a whole new level, blending savory, cheesy, and sweet flavors into one irresistible snack.
Perfect for game nights, parties, or even a fun family treat, these bacon-wrapped beauties are easy to make and guaranteed to impress. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- 8 mozzarella sticks – Use string cheese or pre-cut mozzarella sticks for convenience.
- 8 slices of bacon – Thin-cut bacon works best for even wrapping and crispiness.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite—sweet, smoky, or spicy varieties all shine here.
- Toothpicks – Essential for securing the bacon and keeping the cheese contained.
Instructions: How to Make BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Wrap the Sticks: Take each mozzarella stick and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon, starting at one end and spiraling to the other. Make sure the cheese is fully covered to avoid leaks during cooking. Secure both ends with toothpicks.
- Heat the Skillet: Warm a nonstick skillet over medium heat. No oil needed—the bacon’s fat will do the work!
- Cook to Crispy Perfection: Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks in the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning frequently with tongs, until the bacon is golden and crispy all around. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking the cheese.
- Add the BBQ Glaze: In the last minute of cooking, brush each stick generously with BBQ sauce. Let it caramelize slightly for that sticky, smoky finish.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the sticks from the skillet and let them cool for 1-2 minutes—the molten cheese inside will be piping hot! Remove the toothpicks (optional) and serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Combo: Crispy bacon, melty cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce—what’s not to love?
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal cleanup.
- Party-Ready: These handheld snacks are perfect for sharing (or not!).
- Customizable: Switch up the BBQ sauce or add spices for your own twist.
Tips for Perfect BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Chill the Cheese: Pop the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for 10-15 minutes before wrapping to help them hold their shape while cooking.
- Bacon Choice: Opt for regular (not thick-cut) bacon—it cooks faster and wraps more evenly.
- Spice It Up: Sprinkle a pinch of chili powder or cayenne on the bacon before cooking for a fiery kick.
- Oven Option: Prefer baking? Place the wrapped sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these BBQ bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks with a side of ranch, extra BBQ sauce, or a spicy sriracha dip for variety. Pair them with a crisp green salad or crunchy veggies to balance the richness. They’re also a fantastic match for cold beer, soda, or a fruity mocktail at your next gathering.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~220 kcal per stick
- Protein: 12g
- Carbs: 6g
- Fat: 16g
(Values are approximate and vary based on bacon thickness and BBQ sauce used.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen mozzarella sticks?
Yes, but let them thaw slightly in the fridge first so the bacon wraps easily. Don’t cook them straight from frozen, or the cheese might melt too quickly.
What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?
A sweet and smoky sauce like Stubbs or Sweet Baby Ray’s works great, but feel free to use a spicy version if you love heat.
Can I make these ahead of time?
You can wrap the mozzarella sticks in bacon ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Cook them fresh for the best texture.
How do I prevent cheese from leaking?
Ensure the bacon fully covers the cheese and secure it well with toothpicks. Cooking over medium (not high) heat also helps control melting.
Final Thoughts
These BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate indulgence—crisp, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor. Whether you’re hosting a party, craving a late-night snack, or just want to treat yourself, this recipe delivers every time. They’re so simple yet so addictive, you might need to double the batch!
Obsessed with cheesy snacks? Try our Loaded Nacho Fries or Cheesy Garlic Bread Bites for more delicious ideas!
