Introduction

Bacon-wrapped appetizers have a way of turning any gathering into a scrumptious event, and when combined with the spicy kick of Nashville hot seasoning, they reach a whole new level of indulgence. These Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are an irresistible combination of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and fiery seasoning, making them a perfect treat for game day or any festive occasion.

The process of creating these savory bites is straightforward, yet the payoff is so rewarding. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by the melty pull of mozzarella and a flavor explosion from the spice blend. Whether you're hosting a party or simply indulging on a cozy night in, these mozzarella sticks are sure to impress.

Ingredients

12 mozzarella sticks
Mozzarella sticks serve as the perfect base for this dish, providing a melty, creamy interior that contrasts deliciously with the crispy bacon exterior.
12 slices of bacon
Bacon not only envelops the mozzarella sticks to create a crunchy shell but also infuses the dish with its rich, savory flavor. Choose thin-cut bacon for optimal crispiness.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Flour helps create a light coating on the mozzarella sticks, ensuring the bacon adheres properly while adding a slight crispiness during frying.
1 egg
The beaten egg acts as a binding agent, helping the flour stick to the cheese. It ensures that the coating remains intact during baking or frying, enhancing the texture.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs provide a crunchier texture than standard breadcrumbs, delivering the ideal golden finish that contrasts beautifully with the gooey cheese.
2 tablespoons Nashville hot seasoning
This spice blend is the secret to the dish’s signature heat and flavor. It adds depth and robustness, elevating the overall taste profile of the dish.
Vegetable oil for frying
Used for frying, this oil allows the bacon to crisp up beautifully while adding a lightweight texture without weighing down the mozzarella sticks.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Preheating the oven ensures that your mozzarella sticks cook uniformly and develop a nicely crispy coating. This is crucial for achieving that perfect golden brown color and flavor.

Step 2: Wrap each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon, covering it completely.

Wrapping the mozzarella sticks tightly with bacon is essential as it prevents the cheese from oozing out during the cooking process. The bacon will shrink slightly as it cooks, maintaining an even wrap.

Step 3: Dredge each bacon-wrapped stick in flour, shaking off the excess.

Coating the wrapped sticks in flour not only helps the egg to adhere better but also adds a subtle crispy layer. This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from leaking out when fried.

Step 4: Dip the flour-coated sticks into a beaten egg.

The egg acts as a glue for the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring that they stick and form a delicious crispy crust. This moisture barrier prevents the bacon from becoming soggy.

Step 5: Roll the sticks in panko breadcrumbs to coat evenly.

Panko provides the airy structure for the crispy exterior. The contrast between the coarse breadcrumbs and the melting cheese inside creates a delightful texture that is sure to impress.

Step 6: Sprinkle Nashville hot seasoning over the coated sticks, ensuring an even distribution.

Evenly distributing the seasoning at this stage allows every bite to be packed with flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance, ensuring a personalized touch.

Step 7: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium heat.

Heating the oil properly is key to achieving that crispy exterior. If the oil is not hot enough, the bacon will not crisp up and could become greasy.

Step 8: Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.

Frying in small batches ensures even cooking and crispy results. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning, as the combination of cheese and bacon can cook quickly.

Step 9: Transfer them to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

This step is important to remove any excess oil from the fried sticks, keeping them crisp and preventing them from becoming soggy.

Step 10: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving the mozzarella sticks right after cooking ensures the cheese is warm and gooey. Pair them with a cooling dip to balance the heat from the Nashville seasoning.

Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks step photo

The Secret to Perfectly Crisp Bacon

Achieving the perfect crispiness in bacon-wrapped appetizers can sometimes be challenging. Ensuring the bacon is thin-cut allows it to render fat quickly, leading to a delightful crunch without overcooking the cheese. It's beneficial to slightly overlap the bacon as you wrap, ensuring no cheese is exposed, thus maintaining the gooey center.

Choosing the Right Mozzarella

The type of mozzarella you choose can significantly affect the texture and flavor of your sticks. Opt for low-moisture mozzarella specifically labeled for frying or baking, as it melts beautifully without releasing too much water during cooking. This choice prevents the sticks from becoming soggy and keeps the focus on the crispy bacon.

Balancing the Heat

Nashville hot seasoning packs a punch, but it's important to balance the heat with complementary flavors. If you're sensitive to spice, consider starting with a smaller amount, then adjusting in subsequent batches. Adding a cooling dipping sauce with sour cream or yogurt can also help mellow out the spice, providing a refreshing contrast.

FAQs

What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?

If you don't have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch, though they won't provide the same level of crispiness.

What to do if the cheese leaks during frying?

If cheese leaks, ensure the mozzarella sticks are wrapped tightly in bacon and that they are chilled before frying. This helps the cheese solidify slightly, reducing leaks.

How can I make these in an air fryer?

To air fry, preheat the air fryer to 400°F, and cook the sticks in a single layer for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, while mozzarella is traditional, you can experiment with cheddar or pepper jack for different flavors; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What if my bacon isn’t crispy enough after frying?

If the bacon isn’t crispy, increase the frying time slightly but monitor carefully to avoid burning, or consider finishing them in the oven for a few minutes.

How do I increase the spice level?

To boost the spice level, you can add more Nashville hot seasoning or include a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the panko before coating.

Conclusion

These Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful combination of flavors and textures that are sure to be a hit at your next gathering. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can create an appetizer that not only satisfies your cravings but also impresses your guests.

Don't hesitate to experiment with the spice levels or cheese types to make the recipe your own. Enjoy the process, and relish each crunchy, cheesy bite!

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