These Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers are the perfect snack! Imagine gooey mozzarella wrapped in crispy bacon, then baked to golden perfection. Yum!
Honestly, what’s better than cheese and bacon together? If you’re like me, you’ll want to make a double batch because they disappear fast at parties!
I love how easy these are to whip up. Just wrap, bake, and enjoy! They make a great treat for movie night or game day with friends. Don’t forget to share… maybe! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
mozzarella cheese sticks: These provide that gooey, melty center that is essential. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can use part-skim mozzarella cheese sticks.
Bacon: Use thin to medium slices for easy wrapping. Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re aiming for a leaner version, though it may not crisp up the same way.
Panko breadcrumbs: They give a light and crispy coating. If you’re out, regular breadcrumbs can work, but they may not be as crunchy. For gluten-free options, try crushed rice cereal.
Garlic powder and smoked paprika: These add flavor to the breading. If you want to kick it up a notch, try adding some cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning.
How Do I Make Sure My Poppers Are Perfectly Crispy?
To achieve that desired crispiness on your poppers, the technique is key! Here are some simple steps:
- Make sure to coat the poppers in flour first. This helps the egg wash stick better.
- Don’t rush the frying or baking process. Cook them until the bacon is golden brown, which creates that perfect crispiness.
- If baking, lightly spray the poppers with oil to enhance browning.
- For frying, don’t overcrowd the pot; it lowers the oil temperature, making them soggy.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have delightful crispy bacon mozzarella poppers every time!
Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Poppers:
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
- 12 slices of bacon (thin to medium thickness)
Coating Mix:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooking spray or oil for baking/frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes for preparation and cooking. If you’re frying, you’ll get your poppers crispy in about 15 minutes. If baking, allow 20-25 minutes for them to be perfectly golden. Either way, they’ll be ready in no time for you to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) if you choose to bake them, or if you like frying, heat oil in a deep fryer or a heavy pan to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for getting crispy poppers!
2. Prepare the Cheese:
Grab those mozzarella sticks and cut each one in half for bite-sized poppers, or keep them whole if you prefer a bigger treat.
3. Wrap the Cheese:
Now, take one bacon slice and wrap it tightly around each mozzarella piece, starting from one end and rolling until it’s completely covered. If you need to, use a toothpick to secure the ends.
4. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
In a shallow bowl, add the flour. In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well mixed. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Coat the Poppers:
First, dip a bacon-wrapped popper in the flour, shaking off any extra. Next, dunk it in the egg wash, letting the excess drip off. Finally, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Want them extra crispy? Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating!
6. Cooking Method:
For frying: Carefully drop the prepared poppers into the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes per side until the bacon turns crispy and the breadcrumbs are golden. Once done, place them on paper towels to drain.
For baking: Arrange the poppers on a greased baking sheet or one lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray them with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
7. Serve:
Once they’re crispy and ready, remove any toothpicks (if used) and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious, gooey bacon-wrapped mozzarella poppers hot!
These poppers are perfect for a snack or as a hit party appetizer. Enjoy every bite! 🧀🥓
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is the classic choice for that melty goodness, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses for extra flavor. Just keep in mind that different cheeses may have varying melting points.
Can I Make These Poppers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the poppers in advance! Assemble them and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before frying or baking to ensure even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.
Can I Freeze Bacon Mozzarella Poppers?
Yes, you can freeze them! Place the assembled poppers on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Cook them straight from the freezer, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
