Ingredients
Scale
Gathering the right ingredients is like assembling the cast for a play—each one has its unique role to bring the story to life. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can swap out the smoked paprika for chili powder for a bit of heat or use turkey bacon for a leaner option. These tweaks are reminiscent of my mother’s flair for improvisation, always encouraging us to explore flavors and make each dish our own.
Instructions
Creating these mozzarella sticks is as much about the process as it is about the end result—each step a nod to the culinary skills honed in European kitchens and family gatherings alike.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
- Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the mozzarella sticks, ensuring each one is lightly coated.
- Wrap each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon, ensuring the ends overlap slightly. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
- Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks on the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is just beginning to melt.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
These steps remind me of my time at Le Cordon Bleu, where precision met passion, a philosophy I carry into every dish I create.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International