There’s an undeniable thrill that comes when the aroma of sizzling bacon fills the kitchen, especially when it dances hand-in-hand with melty mozzarella. I found myself in a delightful culinary daydream one weekend, and that’s when the idea for Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks was born! This dish combines the glorious crunch of golden bacon with the gooey goodness of cheese, enveloped in a fiery spice blend that pays homage to Nashville’s famous hot chicken.
As I contemplated entertaining friends for a casual game night, I knew I needed a crowd-pleaser that would evoke excitement. Characteristics like ease of preparation and finger-food friendly bites quickly made these mozzarella sticks my go-to choice. Sure to impress, this recipe promises bold flavors and a heartwarming experience – all ready to whip up in no time. Let’s dive into making these scrumptious morsels that are destined to steal the spotlight at any gathering!
Why will you love Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks?
Indulgent Flavor Explosion: Your taste buds will dance with delight as the smoky bacon complements the gooey mozzarella, creating a flavor that’s unforgettable.
Easy to Make: These bites come together effortlessly, even for novice cooks, making them the perfect appetizer for any occasion.
Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for game nights or parties, these finger-friendly sticks are sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.
Eye-Catching Presentation: The sizzling bacon wrapped around the golden cheese sticks offers a tempting look that draws everyone in.
Customization Potential: Feel free to adjust the level of spice to suit your palate, whether you prefer mild or fiery!
Quick Prep Time: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have these delicious treats ready to serve in no time, making them a fantastic choice for last-minute plans.
For more delightful appetizers, check out our collection of easy finger foods.
Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks
• Mozzarella Cheese Sticks – The star of the dish; opt for string cheese for a classic pull.
• Bacon – Provides the savory, crunchy outer layer; choose thick-cut for the best flavor.
• Flour – Helps the seasoning adhere; use all-purpose flour or a gluten-free blend if desired.
• Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning – Adds the signature spicy kick; adjust the amount to control heat.
• Egg – Acts as a binder; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan option.
For the Dipping Sauce
• Ranch Dressing – Balances the heat; make homemade or use store-bought for convenience.
• Hot Sauce – Enhance the spice level if desired; choose your favorite brand to match the flavor profile.
These Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are not just a treat for the taste buds—they also promise a joyful experience in every bite!
How to Make Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a perfectly crispy texture on the bacon while melting the cheese.
- Wrap cheese: Take a mozzarella stick and wrap it tightly with a slice of bacon, covering it completely. Secure the ends with a toothpick if needed.
- Prepare coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour and Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning. In another bowl, beat the egg until well combined.
- Dredge cheese sticks: Dip each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick first into the egg, ensuring it’s well-coated, and then roll it in the seasoned flour, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart. This allows the heat to circulate for maximum crispiness.
- Bake to perfection: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the bacon is golden brown and the cheese is deliciously molten. Keep an eye on them!
- Serve with sauce: Allow the sticks to cool for a couple of minutes, then serve them warm alongside ranch dressing mixed with extra hot sauce if desired.
Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Room Temperature: Allow cooked sticks to cool before storing them; they’re best enjoyed fresh, but if left out, they can be stored for up to 2 hours at room temperature.
Fridge: Keep leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain flavor and texture; reheat in the oven to restore crispiness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months; bake from frozen until heated through.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to ensure they’re warm and the bacon regains its crispy texture, making every bite as delicious as the first!
What to Serve with Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks?
Elevate your game night or party with delightful pairings that complement these savory bites perfectly.
- Creamy Ranch Dip: A classic choice that cools the spicy kick while adding a rich, tangy flavor to your mozzarella sticks.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden-brown and seasoned, these hearty wedges provide a satisfying crunch beside the melty cheese.
- Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy slaw balances the richness of the bacon, enhancing the overall dining experience while offering vibrant colors.
- Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These spicy yet healthy bites echo the heat of the mozzarella sticks, adding a fun twist for plant-based friends.
- Beer or Cider: An ice-cold beverage pairs seamlessly with the savory saltiness of the bacon, enhancing flavors and elevating the fun.
- Mini Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and crumbly, cornbread muffins beautifully complement the savory elements of the dish, creating a comforting meal.
- Pickles or Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickles is a fantastic contrast to the rich and cheesy sticks, refreshing the palate.
- Fruit Platter: A mix of fresh seasonal fruits like grapes and strawberries adds a sweet touch, balancing out the spicy and savory elements.
- Spicy Grits: For those looking to dive into Southern comfort, creamy grits with a hint of spice offer a delightful pairing with these Nashville-inspired treats.
Expert Tips for Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Choose Quality Bacon: A good quality, thick-cut bacon ensures a satisfying crispiness that elevates the flavor of your mozzarella sticks.
- Even Wrapping: Wrap the mozzarella sticks tightly in bacon to minimize cheese leakage during baking. Use toothpicks if needed to secure them.
- Don’t Skip the Coating: The combination of the egg and seasoned flour creates a crispy crust. Ensure each stick is fully coated for best results.
- Watch the Oven: Keep an eye on them while baking. The ideal outcome features golden bacon and perfectly melted cheese without burning.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning according to your preference. A lighter hand will yield milder sticks while still packing flavor.
- Serve Immediately: These sticks taste best fresh from the oven. Enjoy them warm with the dipping sauce for a delightful flavor experience!
Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Variations
Feel free to spice things up or lighten your bites with these exciting twists!
- Spicy Sriracha: Mix Sriracha into the ranch for an extra kick to your dipping sauce. The vibrant flavor complements the crispy mozzarella perfectly.
- Cheddar Cheese: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar sticks for a bold, tangy flavor. Just remember to adjust baking time, as cheddar may melt faster.
- Turkey Bacon: For a lighter option, use turkey bacon. It’s slightly less crunchy but still provides a delicious smokiness you’ll love.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour for a gluten-free blend to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive friends. It’s an easy way to share the joy!
- Herbed Cream Cheese: Fill the mozzarella sticks with a dollop of herbed cream cheese for a creamy surprise. The richness will take these bites to the next level!
- Buffalo Sauce: Drizzle buffalo sauce over cooked sticks for a tangy, spicy topping. The vibrant red sauce adds both heat and color to your presentation.
- Sweet Chili Dipping Sauce: Instead of ranch, try sweet chili sauce for a delightful contrast of flavors. It adds a hint of sweetness that balances the dish beautifully.
- Mixed Peppers: Add diced jalapeños or pepperoncini to the coating mixture for extra heat. This variation amps up the flavor and crunch with every bite.
Enjoy experimenting with these ideas that transform your already delectable Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks into even more exciting treats!
Make Ahead Options
These Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to delight your guests without the last-minute rush! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the wrapping and coating steps, then place the prepared sticks on a baking sheet, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This helps maintain their texture and flavor. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and bake straight from the fridge, adding an extra few minutes if needed to achieve that perfect crispiness. Enjoy effortless entertaining with these delicious bites!
Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon is best to use for these sticks?
Absolutely! I recommend using thick-cut bacon for its satisfying crispiness and flavor. The thickness helps ensure the bacon gets crispy while allowing the melted cheese to ooze perfectly without leaking during baking.
How do I store leftover mozzarella sticks?
Very! After allowing the cooked sticks to cool, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best texture, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 10-15 minutes, so they regain their crispy exterior.
Can I freeze Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks?
Absolutely! To freeze, arrange the cooked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake from frozen until heated through, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).
What should I do if my cheese leaks out while baking?
No worries! If you notice cheese leaking, it could be due to not wrapping the mozzarella sticks tightly enough with the bacon. Make sure to secure the ends with toothpicks if necessary and keep the wrapping snug to minimize leakage while baking.
Can I make these sticks ahead of time?
Very! You can prepare the mozzarella sticks in advance by wrapping them in bacon and coating them, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to let them sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Are there any allergy considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe contains dairy and may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. Feel free to substitute with vegan cheese sticks and use dairy-free bacon alternatives for a delicious dairy-free treat!
Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe FAQs
Spicy Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) for crispy bacon and melted cheese.
- Wrap each mozzarella stick tightly with a slice of bacon; secure with toothpick if needed.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk flour and Nashville Hot Chicken Seasoning. Beat the egg in another bowl.
- Dip each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick first in the egg, then roll in the seasoned flour.
- Place the coated sticks on a lined baking sheet, spaced apart for heat circulation.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until bacon is golden brown and cheese is molten.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes, then serve warm with ranch dressing mixed with hot sauce.