Mozzarella cheese strings wrapped in crispy bacon make the perfect party food using basic ingredients. It also makes for a quick snack that comes together quickly after the chill time.
Unwrap mozzarella sticks from their individual wrappers.
Use one piece of bacon for each mozzarella stick. Wrap one end of the bacon over one end of the cheese stick. Use a toothpick to secure the bacon in place, pushing the toothpick straight through the bacon and into the center of the cheese.
Wrap the bacon around the cheese stick, overlapping each layer slightly until the bacon can be folded over the opposite end. Secure with another toothpick. The cheese stick should be completely covered by the piece of bacon. Set aside.
Continue wrapping all of the cheese sticks with bacon.
Place the bacon-wrapped cheese sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
Fill a skillet with 2” of cooking oil (vegetable oil) and heat over medium-high until the oil reaches 350°F.
Remove several cheese sticks from the freezer at a time, adding them directly to the heated oil.
Fry, flipping after a few minutes, until the bacon is cooked to desired crispness.
Use a strainer to remove the fried mozzarella strip from the oil and place on paper towels or paper bags to absorb the extra oil.
Continue cooking the cheese sticks in batches until done.
Remove toothpicks before serving.
Notes
Storage: This bacon wrapped appetizer is best when served fresh, but leftovers can be stored for up 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven or air fryer. Notes: Use a thermometer to ensure the oil heats to the correct temperature. Too low and the cheese will ooze out before fully cooking, too high and the bacon will burn for the cheese melts. Chilling the wrapped cheese sticks helps to hold their structure while frying. Do not use thick cut bacon. It takes too long, and you don't get as many pieces.