BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Ingredients

Makes 12–16 sticks

12–16 mozzarella string cheese sticks (or block mozzarella cut into sticks)

12–16 slices of bacon , halved crosswise

½ cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs , beaten

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp smoked paprika

¼ tsp black pepper

¼ cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for dipping)

Optional : Ranch or blue cheese dressing for serving

Step 1: Prep the Coating Station

Set up three shallow bowls:

Bowl 1 : Flour

Bowl 2 : Beaten eggs

Bowl 3 : Panko mixed with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper

Step 2: Coat the Mozzarella

Roll each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.

Dip into beaten eggs, ensuring full coverage.

Coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 3: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each breaded mozzarella stick with a half-slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.

Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 4: Add BBQ Sauce

Lightly brush the bacon-wrapped sticks with BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) .

Bake for 15–20 minutes , flipping halfway, until bacon is crispy and cheese is melty.

Step 6: Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Serve with extra BBQ sauce, ranch, or blue cheese dressing for dipping.