Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs: A Cheesy, Savory Delight

When it comes to party appetizers or indulgent snacks, few things can compete with the irresistible combination of cheese, bacon, and a crispy exterior. Enter Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs—a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to be the star of any gathering. These bite-sized delights are packed with gooey mozzarella, wrapped in savory bacon, and baked to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family dinner, or just craving something delicious, this recipe is a must-try.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs, including tips for perfecting the recipe, variations to suit your taste, and even a few side dishes to pair with these cheesy bombs. Let’s get started!

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Recipe: Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 bombs

Ingredients

• 12 small mozzarella balls (bocconcini, about 1 inch in diameter)
• 12 slices of thin-cut bacon
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• Cooking spray or olive oil (for greasing)
• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing (for dipping)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Balls

1. Pat the mozzarella balls dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help the breading stick better.
2. If the mozzarella balls are too large, you can cut them in half to make smaller bites.

Step 2: Wrap with Bacon

1. Take one slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around a mozzarella ball. Make sure the entire ball is covered, with no gaps.
2. Secure the bacon with a toothpick to prevent it from unraveling during cooking. Repeat this process for all 12 mozzarella balls.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station

1. In three separate shallow bowls, set up your breading station:
   • Bowl 1: Add the flour.
   • Bowl 2: Beat the eggs.
   • Bowl 3: Combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).

Step 4: Bread the Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella

1. Roll each bacon-wrapped mozzarella ball in the flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs to the surface.

Step 5: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil.

Step 6: Bake the Bacon Bombs

1. Place the breaded mozzarella bombs on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bombs from the oven and let them cool for 2-3 minutes.
2. Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.

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Tips for Perfect Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs

• Use Thin-Cut Bacon: Thin-cut bacon cooks faster and crisps up better in the oven, making it ideal for this recipe.
• Don’t Skip the Toothpicks: Securing the bacon with toothpicks ensures it stays wrapped around the mozzarella during baking.
• Double Breading: For an extra crispy coating, you can double-bread the bombs by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Make sure to space the bombs evenly on the baking sheet to allow for even cooking and crispiness.

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Variations to Try

1. Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
2. Herb-Infused: Mix fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano into the breadcrumbs for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
3. Cheese Swap: Substitute mozzarella with cheddar, pepper jack, or even brie for a different cheesy experience.
4. Air Fryer Option: Cook the bombs in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

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Pairing Suggestions

Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides and dips. Here are a few ideas:

• Dips: Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.
• Sides: A fresh garden salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.
• Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine, a cold beer, or a refreshing lemonade.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped mozzarella balls and bread them up to a day in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

2. Can I freeze Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs?

Absolutely. After breading, place the bombs on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

3. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Using small, firm mozzarella balls and wrapping them tightly with bacon helps prevent leaks. Additionally, avoid overcooking, as this can cause the cheese to burst.

4. Can I use turkey bacon?

Yes, turkey bacon can be used as a lighter alternative. However, it may not crisp up as much as regular bacon, so keep an eye on it while baking.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy bacon, melty mozzarella, and seasoned breadcrumbs is simply irresistible. Plus, they’re versatile enough to customize to your liking.

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Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Stuffed Mozzarella Bacon Bombs are guaranteed to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy these cheesy, bacon-wrapped delights.

Happy cooking!

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Note: Nutritional information will vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. For a lighter version, consider using low-fat mozzarella and turkey bacon