Description

Crispy bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks served with a tangy, quick-pickled jalapeño dip. This game-day appetizer offers a perfect balance of salty, crunchy, and acidic flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, frozen for 30 minutes
12 slices thick-cut bacon, cut in half crosswise
2 large eggs, beaten with a pinch of salt
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 cup flour, for dredging
1 cup jalapeño peppers, finely chopped
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 stalks green onion, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Instructions

Set up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder and oregano.
Wrap a half-slice of bacon around each frozen mozzarella stick, overlapping slightly in the center. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
Dredge each bacon-wrapped stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then roll in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Place coated sticks on a plate and return to the freezer for 15 minutes.
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
Arrange frozen sticks on the wire rack, leaving space between each one.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until bacon is golden brown and crispy.
While sticks bake, combine chopped jalapeños, apple cider vinegar, honey, sour cream, mayonnaise, green onions, and cilantro in a bowl. Stir well and let sit for a few minutes.
Remove toothpicks from sticks and serve immediately with the dip.

Notes

Freezing the cheese before and after wrapping is crucial to prevent leaking. Use a wire rack to ensure even crisping and prevent soggy bottoms. The dip flavors improve if made ahead and allowed to sit for at least 10 minutes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bacon-wrapped stic
Calories: 280
Sugar: 2
Sodium: 650
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 9
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 1
Protein: 12

Keywords: bacon mozzarella sticks, game day snacks, quick-pickled pepper dip, appetizer recipes, crispy bacon, party food, jalapeño dip