Air Fryer Bacon-Wrapped Cheddar Roll-Ups
Serves: 3–4
Cook time: ~12–15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy snack magic
Ingredients
8 slices thick-cut bacon
8 cheddar cheese sticks
(or cut block cheddar into 1 x 4-inch sticks)½ cup breadcrumbs (panko works best)
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp black pepper
Optional: pinch of cayenne or chili powder
Optional extras
Honey or hot honey (for drizzling)
BBQ sauce or ranch (for dipping)
Instructions
1. Prep the Bacon
If bacon is very stiff, microwave it 15–20 seconds so it’s flexible (not cooked).
This helps it wrap cleanly without tearing.
2. Wrap the Cheese
Lay one bacon slice flat.
Place a cheddar stick at one end.
Roll tightly until fully wrapped.
Place seam-side down.
Repeat with remaining pieces.
💡 Important: Make sure cheese is fully enclosed so it doesn’t escape while cooking.
3. Season the Outside
In a small bowl, mix:
Breadcrumbs
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Cayenne (if using)
Roll each bacon-wrapped piece in the seasoning mix, pressing lightly so it sticks.
4. Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
Arrange roll-ups in a single layer (don’t crowd).
Cook 6 minutes, flip carefully.
Cook another 6–8 minutes until:
Bacon is crisp
Cheese is melted but not leaking
If bacon needs extra crisping, add 1–2 minutes.
5. Rest & Serve
Let rest 2 minutes (cheese will be molten 🔥).
Serve hot with dipping sauces or a light honey drizzle.
Pro Tips
Cheese choice: Cheddar melts best; mozzarella will leak more.
Extra crunch: Spray lightly with oil before air frying.
Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper to the breadcrumb mix.
Oven option: Bake at 400°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway.
