BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Description

BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

A creamy, avocado-infused version for a unique and indulgent flavor!

Ingredients:

12 slices bacon
12 mozzarella cheese sticks
1 ripe avocado, mashed
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp sea salt
½ cup avocado ranch dressing (for dipping)
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Spread mashed avocado on each mozzarella stick before wrapping in bacon.
Mix breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and sea salt.
Coat bacon-wrapped sticks with breadcrumb mixture.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or air-fry for 10-12 minutes, until crispy.
Serve with avocado ranch dressing.

#AvocadoCheeseWraps

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect BBQ Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks every time.

1. Prep Your Station: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on top if you have one for extra crispiness.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, thoroughly combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and sea salt. In a separate small bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
3. Assemble the Sticks: Pat a mozzarella stick dry with a paper towel. Using a small spoon or knife, spread a thin, even layer of mashed avocado over the entire stick.
4. Wrap with Bacon: Take one slice of bacon and tightly wrap it around the avocado-coated cheese stick in a spiral, slightly overlapping the edges. Ensure the ends of the cheese stick are covered to prevent major leakage.
5. Add the Crunch: Roll the bacon-wrapped stick firmly in the panko mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs adhere to the bacon.
6. Cook: Place each stick seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet or in the air fryer basket. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or air fry for 10-12 minutes, until the bacon is crispy and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the sticks cool for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly for the perfect pull.

Serving Suggestions

Elevate your appetizer game with these serving ideas. Serve the sticks hot alongside a bowl of the recommended avocado ranch dressing for dipping. For a party platter, arrange them on a bed of lettuce with cherry tomatoes and pepperoncini. They also pair wonderfully with a cool, crisp beer or a tangy mango salsa to cut through the richness.

How-to Summary

In short: Coat mozzarella sticks in mashed avocado, wrap tightly in bacon, roll in seasoned panko, and bake or air fry until crispy. Serve with avocado ranch dip after a brief cooling period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?
You can assemble them up to the breading stage, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze for 1 hour. Then transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Can I use a different cheese?
Mozzarella is ideal for its melt and stretch. For a sharper flavor, try a cheddar cheese stick, but be aware it may ooze more aggressively.

My cheese leaked everywhere. How do I prevent this?
Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly with no gaps, especially at the ends. Chilling the assembled sticks for 15 minutes before cooking helps the bacon firm up. Don’t overcook.

Air Fryer vs. Oven: Which is better?
The air fryer yields a crispier bacon exterior faster. The oven is great for larger batches. Both methods are excellent.

What can I use instead of avocado?
The avocado adds creaminess and flavor. A suitable substitute is a thin layer of prepared pesto or a creamy garlic herb spread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using Thick-Cut Bacon: It won’t crisp up properly before the cheese melts. Use regular-cut bacon.
• Skipping the Chill: Not chilling the wrapped sticks before cooking increases cheese leakage.
• Overcrowding the Pan: This leads to steaming instead of crisping. Leave space between each stick.
• Overcooking: Set a timer. Once the bacon is crisp and golden, they are done. Overcooking guarantees a messy leak.

Conclusion

These Avocado Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate fusion of creamy, crunchy, salty, and savory. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create an irresistibly indulgent appetizer that is sure to impress at any gathering. The unique avocado twist adds a fresh dimension that elevates this classic party food into something truly special.