Table of Contents
Meta Description
These Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are ultra-crispy, cheesy, and low-carb—an easy crowd-pleasing appetizer ready in minutes!
Introduction
If there’s one appetizer that never fails to bring people together, it’s gooey melted cheese wrapped in crispy bacon. These Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: Ultimate Crispy Cheese Appetizer Recipe take a classic favorite and turn it into an irresistible, flavor-packed bite that works for parties, game days, or cozy nights at home. 🧀🥓
This recipe is especially loved by anyone following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, because it skips breadcrumbs and flour entirely while still delivering that crunchy, savory satisfaction. It’s proof that an easy recipe can still feel indulgent and exciting. The salty bacon crisps up beautifully in the oven or air fryer, while the mozzarella inside turns warm, stretchy, and creamy.
Whether you’re hosting friends or just craving a quick snack, these bacon wrapped mozzarella sticks hit all the right notes. They’re simple to make, require just a handful of ingredients, and disappear fast once served. If you’ve been searching for a healthy-ish appetizer that doesn’t taste like a compromise, this one deserves a spot on your must-make list.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Optional Dipping Sauce
- Sugar-free marinara sauce or keto ranch dressing
Why these ingredients work: Mozzarella melts smoothly without getting oily, while thin-cut bacon crisps evenly and seals the cheese inside, creating the perfect low-carb shell.
Ingredient Notes
- Mozzarella sticks: Use full-fat string cheese for best melt and flavor.
- Bacon: Thin-cut bacon works best; thick-cut may not crisp before the cheese melts.
- Seasonings: Keep it simple or adjust to taste—cheese and bacon already bring bold flavor.
Recipe Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or wire rack
- Toothpicks (optional)
- Oven or air fryer
- Tongs
Recipe Stat Sheet (Quick View)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15–18 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 12 sticks |
| Diet | Low-Carb, Keto |
| Skill Level | Easy |
| Net Carbs | ~1–2g per stick |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top for extra crispiness. - Wrap the Cheese
Take one mozzarella stick and wrap a slice of bacon tightly around it, slightly overlapping as you go. Secure with toothpicks if needed. - Season Lightly
Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper evenly over the wrapped sticks for extra depth of flavor. - Bake Until Crispy
Arrange sticks seam-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for 15–18 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is golden and crispy. - Rest & Serve
Let them cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. The cheese will be molten and stretchy inside—perfect for dipping.
Pro Tips / Variations
For extra crispiness, bake the sticks on a wire rack so the bacon fat drips away. Want heat? Add cayenne pepper or brush with sugar-free buffalo sauce before baking. You can also cook these in an air fryer at 390°F for 8–10 minutes, checking halfway. For a smoky twist, use peppered bacon or sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning. These sticks are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in the oven to bring back the crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks hot with sugar-free marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli. They pair perfectly with wings, sliders, or a fresh green salad for a balanced low-carb spread.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cheese texture may change.
Nutrition Facts (Per Stick – Estimated)
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 9g
- Protein: 7g
- Total Carbs: 1g
- Net Carbs: ~1g
These Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: Ultimate Crispy Cheese Appetizer Recipe are everything you want in a snack—crispy, cheesy, and unbelievably satisfying. They’re easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for parties. 🥓🧀
Give this low-carb appetizer a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow cheese lovers!