These Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are a crispy treat with gooey cheese inside. Wrapped in smoky bacon, they make the perfect snack for parties or movie nights!
Honestly, who can resist cheese and bacon? Whenever I make these, they disappear fast! Just pop them in the oven and enjoy the cheesy goodness. Yum! 🧀🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Mozzarella Cheese: String cheese is perfect for this recipe because it melts well and pulls apart nicely. If you can’t find string cheese, you can cut fresh mozzarella into sticks, but make sure to drain any excess moisture.
Bacon: Use regular or thick-cut bacon for flavor and crispiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can be a substitute, but it won’t crisp up as well.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture won’t be as crispy. For gluten-free needs, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powder add amazing flavor. Feel free to add your favorite spices, like cayenne pepper for a kick or Italian seasoning for a different flair!
How Can I Ensure My Poppers Are Perfectly Crispy?
To achieve the perfect crispiness, pay attention to the breading and cooking process. Here’s how:
- Make sure to coat each popper thoroughly in the flour, egg, and panko. This triple coating helps create that crunchy texture.
- For extra crunch, double coat the poppers by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Leave some space between the poppers on the baking sheet. This allows hot air to circulate, promoting even cooking and crispiness.
- Keep an eye on them while baking. Every oven is different, so check around the 15-minute mark to prevent burning.
These tips will help you get that satisfying crunch with gooey cheese on the inside. Enjoy your cooking!
Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 sticks of mozzarella string cheese
- 12 slices of 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 onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- Cooking oil spray or oil for frying
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Optional:
- Barbecue sauce or your favorite dipping sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 15-20 minutes of baking time. So, you can have these delicious poppers ready in about 30-35 minutes! Perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to ensure your poppers cook evenly and get nice and crispy. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack inside a baking sheet for optimal circulation.
2. Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
If you prefer smaller poppers, cut each mozzarella string cheese stick in half. This will make them easier to eat and allow for a perfect bite!
3. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a slice of bacon and carefully wrap it around each mozzarella stick. Be sure to secure the ends by tucking them underneath or using a toothpick. This will help keep the bacon in place while cooking.
4. Set Up Your Breading Station:
In a cozy area, set up three shallow bowls: one for flour, another for the egg wash (mix the eggs and water), and a third for the panko breadcrumbs mixed with the seasonings (garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper). This makes the breading process much smoother!
5. Bread the Poppers:
Take each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick and dredge it in the flour first. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it in the egg wash, and finally coat it thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. For extra crispiness, consider repeating the egg and panko process.
6. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Carefully place your breaded poppers onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not touching too much so that they cook evenly. Lightly spray them with cooking oil or brush a little oil over the top for that beautiful golden finish.
7. Bake Until Crispy:
Pop the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is oozy. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is different. It’s always good to check around the 15-minute mark!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove your poppers from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness!
These Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the poppers up to the baking step and then refrigerate them for a few hours or overnight. When ready to bake, simply follow the baking instructions straight from the refrigerator, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Can I Use a Different Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is traditional for its melting qualities, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack for a kick, or even a mix of cheeses. Just ensure they melt well!
How Do I Store Leftover Poppers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again, about 10-12 minutes.
What Dipping Sauces Work Best?
Barbecue sauce is a classic choice, but you can also try ranch, buffalo sauce, or a creamy garlic dip for an extra flavor boost. Get creative according to your taste preferences!
