Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs (Print Version)

Crispy bacon-wrapped mozzarella with crunchy coating and melty center, ideal for dipping or appetizers.

# Ingredients:

→ Dairy

01 - 8 mozzarella cheese sticks, each cut into 3 equal pieces

→ Meat

02 - 24 slices bacon

→ Dry Coating

03 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ Wet Coating

08 - 2 large eggs, beaten

→ For Cooking and Serving

09 - Vegetable oil, for deep frying
10 - Marinara sauce or ranch dressing, for dipping

# Steps:

01 - Slice each mozzarella stick into three uniform pieces. Wrap each cheese portion tightly with one slice of bacon, overlapping the ends and securing with a toothpick if necessary.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
03 - Roll each bacon-wrapped cheese piece in the flour until fully coated. Dip into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the seasoned panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly.
04 - Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy skillet or deep pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the coated bacon bombs in batches for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
05 - Remove any toothpicks and serve immediately while hot. Present with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

# Notes:

01 - Maintain oil temperature at 350°F to prevent the cheese from melting out before the coating crisps. Use a slotted spoon to remove the fried bombs to avoid excess oil.