Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite party appetizer: BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks! Just thinking about them makes my mouth water. Imagine biting into a crispy, savory package that reveals gooey, melted mozzarella cheese inside, all enveloped in juicy, flavorful beef. It’s the kind of dish that makes people gather around the grill, chatting and laughing as the aroma wafts through the air. I remember the first time I made these for a backyard barbecue; everyone was raving about them and I could barely keep up with the demand! Trust me, once you try these BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks, you’ll want to make them for every gathering. They’re super easy to whip up and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these mouthwatering BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks. Make sure to gather these ingredients before you start cooking!
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 mozzarella sticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package of bacon (optional, but oh so tasty!)
How to Prepare BBQ Beef Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness of making these BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a finger-licking appetizer that’ll wow your friends and family in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, preheat your grill to medium heat. This is crucial because you want that perfect sear on your beef, which locks in all that juicy flavor!
- While the grill is heating up, grab a mixing bowl and combine the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix it all together until it’s well combined, but don’t overdo it—just enough to get those flavors mingling!
- Now, take one of those glorious mozzarella sticks and wrap a layer of the beef mixture around it. Make sure to cover it completely, creating a nice little beefy blanket. You want to pack it on there, but not so tight that it squishes out the cheese!
- If you’re feeling adventurous (and really, who isn’t?), take it a step further and wrap the beef-covered mozzarella stick with a piece of bacon. It adds that extra crunch and flavor that’s just divine!
- Keep going until all your mozzarella sticks are wrapped up. You should have eight delicious little bundles of joy ready to hit the grill!
- Time to grill! Place your wrapped sticks on the preheated grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally—this ensures even cooking and that beautiful grill mark action!
- During the last few minutes of grilling, brush on some BBQ sauce. This gives the sticks a sweet and tangy glaze that’s just irresistible. Oh man, the smell is going to be incredible!
- Once they’re cooked through and the cheese is all melty, remove them from the grill and let them cool slightly before serving. Trust me, you don’t want to burn your mouth on hot cheese!
And there you have it! You’ve just made BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks that are sure to be a hit. Now, get ready to enjoy all those satisfied smiles around you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a super easy recipe that anyone can master, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen!
- Delicious flavor combinations of juicy beef, gooey mozzarella, and tangy BBQ sauce make every bite unforgettable.
- Perfect for parties, these BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks are always a crowd-pleaser that disappear fast!
- They’re customizable—add your favorite spices or toppings to make them your own!
- These sticks are great for grilling season, and they work just as well on a stovetop grill or in the oven if you’re craving them year-round.
- With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll have a fantastic appetizer that’s budget-friendly!
- They’re fun to eat and even more fun to share—everyone loves a good cheesy snack!
Tips for Success
To ensure your BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks turn out perfectly every time, I’ve got some handy tips that I’ve learned through my own cooking adventures. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference!
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Make sure you season your beef mixture well. Taste it before wrapping it around the mozzarella sticks. If it doesn’t have that bold flavor, add a bit more salt or pepper!
- Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier option, lean ground beef works great. It still delivers flavor without being too greasy. Plus, you won’t have a greasy mess on your grill!
- Watch the Grill Temp: Medium heat is key! Too high, and you risk burning the beef before the cheese melts. Too low, and you’ll be waiting forever for that gooey goodness!
- Keep an Eye on Them: These beauties can go from perfectly grilled to charred in no time, so stay nearby while they cook. Turning them often helps achieve even cooking and those beautiful grill marks!
- Don’t Overwrap: When wrapping the beef around the mozzarella sticks, make sure it’s thick enough to hold together, but not so thick that it overwhelms the cheese. Aim for a nice balance!
- Rest Before Serving: Let them cool for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the cheese settle a bit and makes them easier to eat. Plus, no one wants to burn their tongue on molten cheese!
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to play around with different spices or BBQ sauce flavors. A little smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a delightful kick!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks that are not just good, but absolutely unforgettable. Now go impress your friends and family!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! While these BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks are absolutely delicious, it’s always good to know what you’re munching on. Here are the typical nutritional values per serving (which is one stick). Keep in mind, these are estimates, but they give you a pretty solid idea of what to expect:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 20g
These tasty little sticks pack a protein punch, making them a satisfying treat for any gathering. Just remember, moderation is key—though I won’t judge you if you want to go back for seconds (or thirds!). Enjoy every cheesy, beefy bite!
FAQ Section
I know you might have some burning questions about these BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks, so let’s tackle a few of the most common ones! I’ve got you covered, whether it’s about substitutes, cooking tips, or storage advice.
Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works just as well. You might want to ramp up the seasoning a bit since they’re milder in flavor compared to beef. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly!
What if I can’t find mozzarella sticks?
No worries! You can use string cheese or even cut blocks of mozzarella into sticks. Just adjust the wrapping so they’re fully covered and still keep that gooey goodness inside!
Can I make these in the oven instead of the grill?
Of course! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake them on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. You won’t get that charred grill flavor, but they’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat them in the oven to maintain that crispy texture—nobody likes a soggy snack!
Can I freeze them?
Yes! You can freeze the wrapped sticks before grilling. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, grill them straight from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to your cooking time!
What dipping sauces go well with these?
Oh, I love this question! They’re fantastic with extra BBQ sauce, but feel free to get creative! Ranch dressing, sriracha, or even a spicy aioli can elevate your snacking experience. Dip away!
Can I add vegetables to the beef mixture?
Definitely! Finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or even some jalapeños can add a nice crunch and flavor. Just make sure they’re chopped small enough to mix well into the beef.
Got more questions? Don’t hesitate to reach out! I’m here to help you create the best BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks ever!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, so you’ve whipped up a batch of these scrumptious BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks, and now you’re left with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store them properly and get that deliciousness back to life when you’re ready to enjoy more!
To store any leftover sticks, pop them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before you seal them up; this helps prevent any condensation, which can make them soggy. Nobody wants that!
When it comes to reheating, the best way to bring back that crispy goodness is to use the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and place the sticks on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even warming. This way, you’ll get that nice crunch back without sacrificing the melty cheese inside!
If you’re in a pinch and need a quicker option, you can microwave them, but be warned: it might not give you the same crispiness. Just heat them in 30-second intervals, checking to make sure the cheese gets melty without turning rubbery. Oops!
So there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can keep enjoying those BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks even after the party is over. Happy snacking!
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BBQ Beef Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks: 7 Savory Delights to Savor
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Delicious BBQ beef wrapped mozzarella sticks.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 mozzarella sticks
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package of bacon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Take a mozzarella stick and wrap it with a layer of the beef mixture.
- If using, wrap the beef-covered mozzarella stick with bacon.
- Repeat for all mozzarella sticks.
- Grill the wrapped sticks for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Brush BBQ sauce on each stick during the last few minutes of grilling.
- Remove from grill and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: bbq beef wrapped mozzarella sticks, grilled cheese, party appetizer