Indulge in the ultimate snack experience with these Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks. Crispy bacon enveloping gooey mozzarella, all seasoned with a spicy kick, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The combination of flavors from the bacon, mozzarella, and Nashville hot seasoning creates a mouthwatering taste sensation.
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for a last-minute snack or appetizer.
Ideal for meal prep, these sticks can be made ahead of time and fried to crispy perfection when needed.

Ingredient Notes:

For the Mozzarella Sticks:

Mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
Bacon (thin-cut recommended)
Toothpicks

For the Nashville Hot Seasoning:

Cayenne pepper
Smoked paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Brown sugar
Chili powder
Salt
Black pepper

For Frying:

Vegetable oil (or enough for shallow frying)

Optional Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped
Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Wrap each half of mozzarella stick with a piece of bacon and secure with a toothpick.
In a bowl, mix together all the Nashville Hot Seasoning ingredients.
Roll the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks in the seasoning mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
Heat vegetable oil in a pan and fry the sticks until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Helpful Tips:

For a healthier alternative, you can bake the sticks in the oven instead of frying.
Make sure to use thin-cut bacon for easier wrapping and quicker cooking.
Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar for a unique twist.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

Allow the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before frying to help them hold their shape.
Use a thermometer to ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying, around 350-375°F.
If the bacon is cooking too quickly, you can finish them off in the oven to ensure the cheese is fully melted.

Serving Suggestions:

These Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks pair perfectly with a side of crispy sweet potato fries and a cold beer or refreshing cocktail.

Snack Time Just Got Spicy with Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use thick-cut bacon instead of thin-cut?

Yes, but thin-cut bacon is recommended for easier wrapping and quicker cooking.

Can I make these ahead of time and fry them later?

Yes, you can prepare the sticks ahead of time and fry them when ready to serve.

Can I freeze these mozzarella sticks?

It is not recommended to freeze them as the texture may change when thawed.

How spicy are these sticks with the Nashville Hot Seasoning?

The spice level can be adjusted to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper.

Conclusion:

Elevate your snack game with these Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks that are sure to impress your friends and family. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out!