Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks (Cheesy, Meaty, Dangerous)

Mozzarella sticks are great. Bacon is great. So why has no one forced them to marry sooner? This is a three-ingredient miracle: string cheese, bacon, and your favorite marinara. Air fry or bake until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melty. Prepare for addiction.

Ingredients

Makes 8 sticks (serves 2-4).

• 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks
• 8 slices thin-cut bacon
• 1 cup marinara sauce, for dipping
• Optional: Everything bagel seasoning or black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Cheese

1. Remove string cheese from wrappers.
2. If using, roll each stick in everything bagel seasoning or pepper.

Step 2: Wrap With Bacon

1. Wrap one slice of bacon around each cheese stick in a spiral, slightly overlapping.
2. Tuck the end under the bacon to secure. No toothpicks needed.

Step 3: Cook Until Crispy

1. Air fryer method: Place sticks in a single layer. Cook at 380°F for 8-10 minutes until bacon is crispy.
2. Oven method: Bake at 400°F on a wire rack over a baking sheet for 12-15 minutes.
3. Pan method: Cook in a skillet over medium heat, turning often, for 8-10 minutes.

Step 4: Cool Slightly

1. Let rest for 2 minutes. The cheese will be lava-hot.

Step 5: Serve With Marinara

1. Warm marinara sauce in a small bowl.
2. Dip and pull. Watch the cheese stretch to oblivion.

Summary

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes

Yield: 8 sticks

Difficulty: Easy

Storage Notes

These are best fresh and hot. Leftovers can be refrigerated for 2 days. Reheat in an air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes. Do not microwave (soggy bacon, exploded cheese). Uncooked bacon-wrapped sticks can be frozen for up to 1 month—cook from frozen, add 2-3 minutes.