If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing snack, these Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks deliver everything you love — crispy, salty bacon wrapped around gooey, melty mozzarella. Each bite offers the perfect combination of smoky crunch and cheesy goodness.
They’re simple to make yet taste gourmet — ideal for game nights, parties, or lazy weekends when you want something comforting and satisfying. The best part? You only need two main ingredients and a few minutes of prep.
Whether you bake them for a lighter version or air-fry for that perfect crisp, these bacon-wrapped cheese sticks are dangerously addictive. Once you make them, you’ll never go back to plain mozzarella sticks again.
Why You’ll Love These Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Only 2 ingredients needed — bacon + mozzarella.
- Super easy and quick — ready in about 20 minutes.
- Crispy, cheesy, smoky perfection in every bite.
- Great for parties, snacks, or low-carb appetizers.
- Works in oven, air fryer, or even on the grill.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This recipe takes a classic comfort food and gives it a genius twist. The smoky, salty bacon wraps the mozzarella like a flavorful blanket, crisping up as the cheese melts inside. It’s indulgent yet simple — and surprisingly versatile.
You can serve them as appetizers with marinara or ranch, enjoy them as a late-night snack, or even make them part of a fun weekend brunch spread. Plus, they’re naturally keto-friendly and gluten-free — so everyone can enjoy them guilt-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- Marinara or ranch dressing, for dipping
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks (Step by Step)
Step 1: Freeze the cheese sticks
First, unwrap the mozzarella sticks and place them on a plate or tray. Freeze for at least 30 minutes — this prevents the cheese from melting too quickly while the bacon crisps.
Step 2: Wrap with bacon
Once the cheese sticks are firm, wrap each one tightly with a slice of bacon. Start at one end, slightly overlapping as you spiral down the stick. Secure the ends with toothpicks if needed.
Step 3: Season lightly
Sprinkle with black pepper and a touch of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step 4: Choose your cooking method
- Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the wrapped sticks on the rack and bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is crisp.
- Air Fryer: Preheat to 390°F (200°C). Place the sticks in a single layer and air fry for 10–12 minutes, turning once.
- Grill: Cook over medium heat for about 8–10 minutes, turning often, until bacon is fully cooked and crisp.
Step 5: Serve and enjoy
Let cool for 2–3 minutes (the cheese will be very hot inside). Serve with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dip.
Tips for the Best Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Freeze before cooking — It’s the secret to preventing cheese from oozing out too early.
- Use thin bacon — It crisps faster and wraps more easily around the cheese.
- Overlap the bacon — Prevents gaps where cheese can escape.
- Cook on a rack — Keeps the bacon crispy all around.
- Flip halfway through — Ensures even browning and crunch.
- Avoid thick-cut bacon — It stays chewy and takes too long to cook.
- Season lightly — Bacon already adds salt, so a little pepper and garlic go a long way.
- Let them rest — A brief rest helps the cheese firm slightly before biting in.
- Serve warm — That’s when the cheese is perfectly melty.
- Double-batch them! — They disappear fast — you’ll want extras.
Variations & Substitutions
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or cayenne before baking.
- Herbed Flavor: Brush with Italian seasoning or rosemary before wrapping.
- BBQ Style: Glaze with BBQ sauce halfway through cooking.
- Breakfast Version: Use turkey bacon or prosciutto for a lighter twist.
- Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack, cheddar sticks, or Colby Jack.
- Keto Dip Pairings: Serve with garlic aioli or chipotle mayo.
- Sweet & Savory: Drizzle with a touch of honey or maple syrup after baking.
- Smoked Option: Use the grill for a smoky, campfire-style flavor.
- Extra Crispy: Finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes.
- Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium bacon if preferred.
What to Serve With Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Marinara sauce or pizza sauce
- Ranch dressing or garlic aioli
- Buffalo sauce for heat lovers
- Crispy fries or onion rings for a fun snack platter
- Cold beer or iced cola to balance the richness
- Fresh veggie sticks for a refreshing contrast
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving — it makes the bacon soggy.
To Freeze:
Freeze before baking for up to 1 month. Cook straight from frozen, adding 3–4 minutes to the baking time.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use thick-cut bacon?
You can, but it may not crisp up fully before the cheese melts. Thin-cut works best.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Wrap and freeze them, then bake just before serving.
Can I skip freezing the cheese?
It’s not recommended — it helps keep the cheese from melting too fast.
Can I bake them without a rack?
Yes, but place them on parchment paper and flip halfway for even cooking.
Can I air fry them?
Absolutely — it’s the quickest method for a crispy finish.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
Classic marinara, ranch, or spicy mayo pair beautifully.
Can I use vegan cheese or bacon?
Yes — use plant-based cheese sticks and vegan bacon strips.
Can I grill them outdoors?
Yes! Just cook over indirect heat to prevent flare-ups.
Can I serve them cold?
They’re best hot and gooey, right after cooking.
Can I double the recipe?
Definitely — just cook in batches to keep everything crisp.