Cheese Wrapped In Bacon is an indulgent treat that never fails to impress. The first time I tried this recipe was during a summer barbecue with friends, and it quickly became a favorite. It’s a fantastic appetizer that’s perfect for gatherings, game nights, or even a fun snack at home.
The combination of crispy bacon and melty mozzarella is a match made in heaven. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to ensure that the bacon is cooked to a nice crisp without over-melting the cheese. Freezing the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly.
When making this recipe, I like to experiment with different types of bacon. Thick-cut bacon provides a hearty bite, while a peppered or maple-flavored bacon adds an extra layer of flavor. Another variation I enjoy is adding a sprinkle of herbs like rosemary or thyme on the cheese sticks before wrapping them in bacon, giving them a gourmet twist.
For those who prefer a slightly lighter version, turkey bacon can be a good alternative. It doesn’t crisp up quite as much as pork bacon, but it still offers a delightful texture and taste.
This recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require a lot of ingredients or complicated techniques. Just remember to keep an eye on the oil temperature to avoid burning the bacon or undercooking it. Serving these cheese sticks hot ensures you get that perfect melty cheese pull with each bite.
Next time you’re hosting a party or just in the mood for something indulgent, give these Cheese Wrapped In Bacon sticks a try. They are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.
How to Make Cheese Wrapped In Bacon
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Ingredients
- 12 sticks of mozzarella (whole milk or low-moisture)
- 1 pound bacon (approximately 12 slices)
- Cooking oil
Directions
- Remove the mozzarella sticks from their packaging.
- Start with one slice of bacon, wrapping it around one end of a cheese stick. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon by inserting it into the center of the cheese.
- Continue to wrap the bacon around the cheese stick, slightly overlapping each layer. Secure the other end with another toothpick to cover the entire cheese stick with bacon. Set it aside.
- Repeat the wrapping process with the remaining cheese sticks.
- Freeze the bacon-wrapped cheese sticks for at least 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, heat 2 inches of cooking oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
- Take a few cheese sticks from the freezer and place them directly into the hot oil.
- Fry them, turning occasionally, until the bacon is as crispy as you like.
- Remove the fried cheese sticks with a strainer and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Continue frying the rest of the cheese sticks in batches.
- Remove the toothpicks before serving.
FAQs:
Can I use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon?
Yes, you can use turkey bacon as a healthier alternative. However, it may not crisp up as well as pork bacon. Monitor the frying process closely to avoid overcooking.
What type of oil is best for frying?
Any oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil, is suitable for frying. These oils can handle the high heat required without burning.
How can I make sure the cheese doesn’t melt out of the bacon while frying?
Freezing the bacon-wrapped cheese sticks for at least 30 minutes helps to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly. Additionally, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the sticks to fry quickly and evenly.
Is there an alternative cooking method besides frying?
Yes, you can bake the bacon-wrapped cheese sticks in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through until the bacon is crispy.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can wrap the cheese sticks with bacon and freeze them ahead of time. Just store them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they’ll be ready to fry or bake when you need them.
What can I serve with cheese wrapped in bacon?
These make a great appetizer or snack. Serve them with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy dipping sauce to complement the flavors.
Cheese Wrapped In Bacon
Ingredients
- 1 pound bacon typically about 12 slices
- 12 mozzarella sticks whole milk or low-moisture
- cooking oil
Instructions
- Unwrap the mozzarella sticks from their packaging.
- Take one piece of bacon and start wrapping it around one end of a cheese stick. Secure the bacon with a toothpick by pushing it through the bacon into the center of the cheese.
- Continue wrapping the bacon around the cheese stick, overlapping each layer slightly. Once the bacon reaches the other end, secure it with another toothpick. Ensure the bacon covers the entire cheese stick. Set it aside.
- Repeat the process with the remaining cheese sticks.
- Place the bacon-wrapped cheese sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
- Fill a skillet with 2 inches of cooking oil and heat it over medium-high until it reaches 350°F.
- Remove a few cheese sticks from the freezer and place them directly into the hot oil.
- Fry, turning them after a few minutes until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispness.
- Use a strainer to remove the fried cheese sticks from the oil and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Continue frying the cheese sticks in batches until all are cooked.
- Remove the toothpicks before serving.
