Keto Bacon Mozzarella Sticks

Keto Bacon Mozzarella Sticks (No Breading)

A simple and delicious low-carb snack! These bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks are perfect without any breading—crispy, cheesy, and 100% keto-friendly.

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Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella sticks (full-fat and low-carb)
• 12 slices of thin-cut bacon
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Optional: Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish

For dipping (optional):

• Sugar-free marinara sauce

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Instructions

1. Prepare the mozzarella sticks:
   • Unwrap each mozzarella stick.
   • Sprinkle garlic powder and smoked paprika evenly over both the mozzarella sticks and bacon slices.
   • Tightly wrap one slice of bacon around each stick, ensuring the entire cheese stick is covered. Slightly overlap the bacon as you wrap to seal it completely. Secure the ends with toothpicks if needed.
2. Freeze the sticks:
   • Place the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This helps the cheese hold its shape while cooking.
3. Cook the sticks:
   Option 1: Air Fryer
   • Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
   • Place the sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
   • Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
   Option 2: Oven
   • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Arrange the sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (to allow the bacon fat to drip off).
   • Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the bacon is crisp and golden.
   Option 3: Skillet
   • Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
   • Cook the sticks, turning them often, for 6-8 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese begins to soften.
4. Serve and enjoy:
   • Let the sticks cool for 1-2 minutes to firm up slightly before serving.
   • Garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan if desired, and serve with sugar-free marinara or keto ranch dressing for dipping!

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Sugar-Free Marinara Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes (no sugar added)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, onion powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors blend.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Your sugar-free marinara sauce is ready!

Tips:

• Use mozzarella sticks labeled as “low moisture” to prevent excessive melting.
• Freeze any extras and cook them straight from frozen for an easy snack later.