Get ready for a tasty treat with these crispy bacon mozzarella poppers! They’re stuffed with gooey mozzarella and wrapped in delicious bacon that gets perfectly crunchy in the oven.
Honestly, who doesn’t love bacon and cheese? I enjoy these poppers as a fun snack while watching a movie. They’re super easy to make and always a hit among friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella cheese: I recommend using string cheese for easy handling and popping. If you can’t find string cheese, regular mozzarella cut into thick sticks works well too.
Bacon: Thick-cut bacon gives the best results for that crispy texture. If you want a lower-fat option, turkey bacon is a good substitute, although it won’t be as crispy.
Panko breadcrumbs: These provide a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they won’t be as crispy. You could even crush some crackers for a fun twist!
Seasonings: Garlic powder and smoked paprika enhance flavor. You can swap these with your favorite spices, like cayenne pepper for heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile.
How Do You Get Crispy Bacon on Mozzarella Poppers?
The key to achieving crispy bacon around your mozzarella poppers is to prepare the ingredients correctly. Start by freezing the wrapped cheese. Freezing prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during cooking, ensuring the bacon gets crispy first.
- After wrapping the cheese in bacon, place them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
- When baking, use a wire rack above a baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate around the poppers, aiding crispiness.
- For frying, ensure the oil is hot enough (350°F) before cooking. Fry in batches so they aren’t crowded, which can lower the oil temperature.
Whether baking or frying, make sure to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your crispy snack!
Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 sticks mozzarella cheese (string cheese or cut into thick sticks)
- 12 slices bacon
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking & Garnish:
- Cooking spray or oil for baking/frying
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Marinara or barbecue sauce for dipping (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe includes about 30 minutes of active prep time and an additional 30 minutes for freezing. Cooking takes between 15-20 minutes if you’re baking, or about 3-4 minutes if you’re frying. In total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour to prepare and cook these delicious poppers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mozzarella:
Start by cutting the mozzarella string cheese into sticks that are about 3 inches long. Lay them out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pop them in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This helps to keep the cheese from melting before the bacon crisps up!
2. Wrap with Bacon:
Once the cheese is frozen, take each slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around a mozzarella stick. Make sure to overlap the bacon slightly to hold the cheese in place. After wrapping, return the bacon-wrapped sticks to the freezer while you set up the breading station.
3. Set Up Breading Stations:
In one bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until combined. In a third bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will create a flavorful coating for your poppers!
4. Coat the Poppers:
Take the frozen bacon-wrapped mozzarella out of the freezer. First, dredge each popper in the flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dip it into the egg wash, and finally coat it well in the breadcrumb mixture. For an extra crispy texture, you can dip them in the egg and coat with breadcrumbs a second time!
5. Cook the Poppers:
Now it’s time to cook them!
- Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the poppers on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with foil. Lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Frying Method: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or a large pot. Fry the poppers in batches, turning them occasionally until they become golden brown and crispy—this should take about 3-4 minutes. Be sure to drain them on paper towels afterward!
6. Serve:
Finally, garnish your crispy bacon mozzarella poppers with chopped parsley and serve them immediately. They pair perfectly with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
These poppers are guaranteed to be a hit for any gathering or simply as a delightful snack for you!
Can I Use Regular Bacon Instead of Thick-Cut Bacon?
Yes, you can use regular bacon! Just keep in mind that it may cook quicker than thick-cut bacon, so watch for doneness to prevent burning.
Can I Freeze the Poppers Before Cooking?
Absolutely! You can prepare and freeze them before baking or frying. Just ensure they are well-wrapped and stored in an airtight container. Cook them straight from the freezer, but add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well With These Poppers?
Marinara sauce is a classic choice, but you can also pair them with barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even sriracha for a spicy kick!
How Do I Ensure the Cheese Doesn’t Leak Out While Cooking?
Freezing the mozzarella sticks before wrapping them in bacon helps prevent leaking during cooking. Make sure to wrap the bacon tightly around the cheese and avoid overcrowding in the oven or fryer, allowing for even cooking.