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Easy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers Appetizer
Anne Newgent

Crispy Bacon Mozzarella Poppers

Crispy, salty bacon wraps around a core of gooey, melted mozzarella, all coated in a seasoned, crunchy breading. These easy-to-make poppers are the ultimate appetizer for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a satisfying cheesy bite.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 315
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 16 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes or sticks
  • 1 lb thin-cut turkey bacon, partially cooked (as a lean alternative)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup plain breadcrumbs (or gluten-free)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups vegetable oil, for frying (or use cooking spray for baking/air frying)

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Prep Mozzarella and Bacon
    Cut mozzarella cheese into 1-inch cubes or sticks. Partially cook turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until pliable. Drain on paper towels and let cool. Wrap each piece of cheese tightly with a strip of bacon, fully enclosing the cheese.
  2. Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
    In three shallow dishes, place flour in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper in the third.
  3. Step 3: Bread the Poppers
    Dip each bacon-wrapped cheese piece in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double breading. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
  4. Step 4: Chill Before Cooking
    Place breaded poppers on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes (up to 1 hour) to help the coating set and prevent cheese from leaking.
  5. Step 5: Cook the Poppers
    Frying: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C). Fry for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.
    Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake on a wire rack for 10–15 minutes until golden.
    Air Fryer: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Spray with oil and air fry 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crisp.
  6. Step 6: Serve
    Serve hot with marinara, ranch, or honey mustard dipping sauces. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. To reduce fat, use turkey bacon and air fry. For extra flavor, add Italian herbs or a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mix. Freeze uncooked poppers for up to 1 month and cook directly from frozen.