Crispy Bacon Cheese Sticks (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
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12 mozzarella sticks
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12 strips of bacon
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1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)
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Marinara sauce (for dipping)
# Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray or brush with olive oil
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Place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during cooking
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Once the mozzarella sticks are firm, take one strip of bacon and wrap it around each mozzarella stick, starting from one end and overlapping slightly as you go. Secure the ends with toothpicks if necessary
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In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station. In the first bowl, place the flour. In the second bowl, whisk the eggs. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper
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Roll each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick in the flour to coat, then dip into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's fully covered. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to get it to stick well
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Place the breaded mozzarella sticks onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted (keep an eye on them to avoid burning)
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Remove from the oven, let them cool slightly, and serve with warm marinara sauce on the side for dipping
# Notes:
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Freezing the mozzarella sticks helps prevent them from melting too quickly
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Secure bacon with toothpicks if needed, but remove before serving
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Watch closely during baking as cooking times may vary
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For extra flavor, try adding Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mixture