These Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are irresistible little bites! Imagine stretchy mozzarella wrapped in crispy bacon, perfectly seasoned and ready for dipping.
You won’t be able to stop at just one! They’re great for snacking while watching movies or as a party treat. I love serving them with marinara sauce for that extra yum! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese Sticks: The star of these poppers! Use string cheese for amazing stretchiness. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese sticks instead, though they might not melt the same way.
Bacon: I recommend using regular bacon for this recipe as it crisps up beautifully. You can swap it for turkey bacon for a healthier option, but keep in mind it won’t be as crispy.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add extra crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but your poppers may not be quite as crispy. You could also use crushed cornflakes for a fun twist!
Spices: The garlic powder and smoked paprika give these poppers great flavor. If you want a spicy kick, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use a spicy seasoning mix.
How Do I Ensure My Cheese Doesn’t Ooze Out While Frying?
It’s crucial to keep that gooey cheese inside! Freezing the coated poppers for at least 30 minutes helps solidify the mozzarella and reduces oozing during cooking. Here are some tips:
- Wrap the bacon tightly around the cheese sticks to create a good seal.
- Secure the ends with toothpicks if needed, so the bacon holds its shape.
- Fry in small batches. This prevents temperature drops in the oil, ensuring proper cooking.
- If you notice any leaks, keep the temperature consistent while frying. Hot oil is your friend!
With these tips, you’re all set to make the best crispy bacon mozzarella poppers. Enjoy!
How to Make Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 12 slices of bacon
For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Frying and Garnishing:
- Cooking oil (vegetable or canola) for frying
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Marinara sauce (optional, for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 10 minutes to fry. Plus, you’ll want to freeze the poppers for at least 30 minutes before frying, making the total time around 55 minutes. It’s worth the wait for these delicious snacks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Sticks:
Start by cutting each of the mozzarella sticks in half, giving you shorter pieces that are easier to handle and wrap. Set them aside.
2. Wrap with Bacon:
Take one piece of mozzarella and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon. If needed, use toothpicks to secure the ends so that the bacon stays in place while cooking.
3. Set Up Your Dredging Station:
In three separate shallow bowls, prepare for breading. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and water. In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Coat the Poppers:
Take each bacon-wrapped cheese stick and first roll it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, and then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s well coated. For an extra crispy texture, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coat one more time!
5. Freeze for the Perfect Texture:
Place the coated poppers on a baking sheet and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cheese stay inside while frying and makes them easier to cook.
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or large deep skillet, heat cooking oil to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is key for getting that perfect crispy outer layer.
7. Fry the Poppers:
Carefully fry the poppers in batches for about 2-4 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the breadcrumbs are golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this will lower the oil temperature!
8. Drain and Garnish:
Using a slotted spoon, remove the poppers and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. If you like, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the crispy bacon mozzarella poppers hot, alongside a warm marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy these cheesy, crispy delights!
Get ready for compliments and requests for the recipe—they’re that good! Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Different Cheeses for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even provolone. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may melt differently, so adjust cooking time accordingly.
How Can I Make These Poppers Healthier?
For a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon which is leaner, or bake the poppers in the oven instead of frying. If baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the poppers on a lined baking sheet, baking for about 15-20 minutes or until crispy.
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the poppers and freeze them before frying. Just freeze them until firm, then transfer to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to eat, fry them straight from the freezer without thawing, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
What Should I Serve with the Poppers?
These poppers are perfect with marinara sauce for dipping, but you can also serve them alongside ranch dressing, guacamole, or a spicy aioli for added flavor. They’re great as appetizers or party snacks!
