Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Shrimp Bites with Garlicky Crunch
Succulent jumbo shrimp and gooey mozzarella cheese wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a garlicky crust. These delectable bites are deep-fried to perfection and served with a tangy buffalo sauce for a mouthwatering explosion of flavor.
ingredients
- 12 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 small mozzarella cheese cubes
- 12 slices of bacon, halved
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- Fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
steps
- 1.
Preheat your deep fryer or a large pot filled with vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- 2.
Cut a slit along the back of each shrimp and stuff with a mozzarella cheese cube. Wrap each shrimp with a halved bacon slice and secure with a toothpick.
- 3.
In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Dip each bacon-wrapped shrimp into the beaten eggs, then roll in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- 4.
Carefully place the coated shrimp in the preheated oil and fry until the bacon becomes golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside is melted (about 6-8 minutes). Fry in batches, if needed, to avoid overcrowding the fryer.
- 5.
Once cooked, transfer the shrimp bites to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- 6.
In a small saucepan, heat the buffalo sauce over low heat until warmed.
- 7.
Serve the bacon-wrapped shrimp bites on a platter, garnished with fresh chives. Provide a side bowl of warmed buffalo sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
