Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Sticks

Welcome to a recipe that will take your love for grilled cheese to a whole new level – Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Fingers! These crispy, cheesy delights are a game-changer, perfect for parties, snacks, or late-night cravings. Imagine gooey cheddar cheese snugly wrapped in savory bacon, grilled to perfection until crispy. It’s a flavor explosion that’s sure to disappear fast from your plate.

The idea of combining bacon and grilled cheese may seem indulgent, but trust me, it’s worth every delicious bite. The smoky flavor and crispy texture of the bacon take these grilled cheese fingers to a whole new level of comfort food goodness. Whether you’re dipping them into your favorite sauce or enjoying them on their own, these bacon-wrapped treats are sure to become a crowd favorite at any gathering.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe – swap out the cheese for a spicier kick, try turkey bacon for a lighter option, or add in some jalapeños or tomatoes for extra flavor. Serve these Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Fingers with a side of tomato soup, crunchy pickles, or a variety of dipping sauces for a complete snacking experience. Once you try these, they’ll quickly become a staple on your party menu!

Quick Benefits

  • Indulgent Comfort Food: Combining bacon and cheese in this grilled cheese finger recipe brings a whole new level of comfort food nostalgia.
  • Versatile Options: Customize with different cheese like pepper jack, turkey bacon for a lighter twist, or add jalapeños, tomatoes, or onions for more flavor and texture.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Snack: Perfect for parties, gatherings, or late-night cravings, these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
  • Crispy and Savory: Grilling these fingers until the bacon is crisp adds a smoky flavor and bite that enhances the cheesy goodness, making them a satisfying treat.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Sticks Recipe

  • Irresistible Combination: The fusion of gooey cheese and crispy bacon in this recipe creates a mouthwatering blend of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
  • Perfect Party Food: These bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers are a hit at any gathering, from birthday parties to game nights. They are sure to disappear fast, leaving your guests wanting more.
  • Versatile Ingredients: You can customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences by swapping the cheese for a spicier option, trying turkey bacon for a lighter twist, or adding jalapeños, tomatoes, or onions for extra flavor.
  • Easy to Make Ahead: These grilled cheese fingers can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Simply reheat them in a skillet or air fryer to restore their crispy exterior, making them a convenient option for busy days.
  • Southern Comfort: Inspired by Southern potluck traditions, this recipe brings together two beloved comfort foods in a delightful and indulgent finger food that will evoke feelings of nostalgia and warmth.
  • Dipping Delight: Pair these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, or spicy ketchup for a satisfying and flavorful snack experience.
  • Crispy and Cheesy: The combination of crispy bacon and melted cheddar or American cheese creates a satisfying contrast in textures that will tantalize your taste buds with each bite.
  • Crowd Pleaser: Whether you’re serving these at a party, as a late-night snack, or as a fun twist on a classic grilled cheese sandwich, these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Sticks

Main Components

  • 8 slices mild or sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 slices streaky bacon
  • 30 millilitres unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 slices white or whole-wheat sandwich bread

Pro Tips for Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Sticks

Pro Tip 1: To ensure your bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers stay intact while grilling, secure each wrapped finger with toothpicks. This will keep the bacon in place until it crisps up nicely.

Pro Tip 2: Sliced cheddar or American cheese are great choices for these grilled cheese fingers as they melt smoothly and complement the savory bacon flavor. For an extra kick, consider adding sliced jalapeños, tomatoes, or onions inside before wrapping them up.

Pro Tip 3: For a delightful dipping experience, serve your bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers with a variety of sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, or spicy ketchup. To keep them crispy, prepare, wrap, and refrigerate the fingers in advance, then grill them just before serving.

How to Make Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat the grill to medium heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Bread

Evenly spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwiches

Sandwich one slice of cheese between two slices of bread with the buttered sides facing outwards.

Step 4: Wrap with Bacon

Wrap each sandwich tightly with one strip of bacon and secure with toothpicks if needed to hold its shape while grilling.

Step 5: Grill

Grill the bacon-wrapped sandwiches for 6–8 minutes per side, turning once, until bacon is crisp and bread is golden brown.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Remove toothpicks, cut into strips, and serve hot.

Storage Tips

Once you’ve made these delicious bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers, you’ll want to store any leftovers properly to enjoy later. Make sure the grilled cheese fingers are completely cooled before transferring them to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator where they can stay fresh for up to two days. When ready to enjoy again, it’s best to reheat them in a skillet or air fryer to restore their crispy exterior, avoiding the microwave which can make them soggy.

To add a twist to this recipe, you can experiment with different cheese options like pepper jack for a spicy kick or try using turkey bacon for a lighter alternative. Gluten-free bread can also be used, just lightly toast the bread before assembling to prevent sogginess during grilling. Serve these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers with classic tomato soup for dipping or alongside pickles and a variety of sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard for extra flavor. Cutting them into smaller pieces makes for convenient snacking at parties or gatherings.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you would like to make a lighter version of these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. Turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative while still providing that savory and smoky flavor when grilled.

For a different flavor profile, you can experiment with different cheese varieties. Swap out the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a spicier kick, or try American cheese for a creamier melt. These cheeses will still pair well with the bacon and add a new dimension to your grilled cheese fingers.

If you have dietary restrictions, opt for gluten-free bread in place of white or whole-wheat bread. Just be sure to lightly toast the gluten-free bread before assembling to maintain its texture on the grill. This substitution will allow those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious snack without sacrificing taste or quality.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun and indulgent twist on a classic favorite, serve these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers as a playful appetizer at your next gathering. Secure each cheesy finger with toothpicks before grilling to ensure the bacon stays crisp and delicious. Consider offering a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue, or spicy ketchup to elevate the flavors and provide a customizable experience for your guests.

To take these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers to the next level, experiment with different fillings such as sliced jalapeños, tomatoes, or onions for added flavor and texture. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a satisfying late-night snack, these savory bites are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Prepare, wrap, and refrigerate the fingers in advance, then grill them just before serving to achieve maximum crispness and gooey cheese goodness.

FAQs for Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Sticks

Can I use a different type of cheese for these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers?

Absolutely! You can swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack for an extra kick of flavor, or try another type of cheese that you prefer.

How should I store leftover bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers?

Cool leftover grilled cheese fingers completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can be kept for up to two days and are best reheated in a skillet or air fryer to maintain their crispy exterior.

Can I make these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can prepare, wrap, and refrigerate the fingers ahead of time. Grill them just before serving to ensure they are at their crispiest and most delicious state.

What are some recommended dipping sauce options for these bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers?

You can serve these delicious snacks with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even spicy ketchup for tasty and flavorful accompaniments.

Conclusion

As you embark on making these irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Fingers, remember that each bite is a harmonious blend of gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and buttery bread. This recipe is not just about food; it’s about creating shared memories and enjoying delicious moments with loved ones. The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations to suit your preferences, making it a perfect go-to snack for any occasion.

So whether you’re hosting a party, having a cozy night in, or simply craving a comforting treat, these Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Fingers are sure to hit the spot. Embrace the joy of cooking and savor the satisfaction of indulging in these delightful creations. Remember, good food is meant to be shared and enjoyed, so spread the love by sharing this recipe with your friends and family. Let the aroma of sizzling bacon and melting cheese fill your kitchen, and get ready to delight in every delicious bite of these Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Fingers.

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Sticks

Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Grilled Cheese Sticks

Crispy bacon-wrapped grilled cheese fingers, a savory fusion that’s perfect for parties or late-night cravings, offering a gooey, smoky, and indulgent experience in every bite.
Prep Time10 Minutes
Cook Time15 Minutes
Total Time25 Minutes
CuisineAmerican
Skill LevelEasy
Servings4 Servings (8 fingers)

Ingredients

Main Components

  • 8 slices mild or sharp cheddar cheese
  • 8 slices streaky bacon
  • 30 millilitres unsalted butter, softened
  • 8 slices white or whole-wheat sandwich bread

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Prepare the Bread: Evenly spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
  3. Assemble the Sandwiches: Sandwich one slice of cheese between two slices of bread with the buttered sides facing outwards.
  4. Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each sandwich tightly with one strip of bacon and secure with toothpicks if needed to hold its shape while grilling.
  5. Grill: Grill the bacon-wrapped sandwiches for 6–8 minutes per side, turning once, until bacon is crisp and bread is golden brown.
  6. Slice and Serve: Remove toothpicks, cut into strips, and serve hot.