Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, few things can compare to warm, gooey cheese and crispy bacon. This delightful combination is sure to please anyone, whether for a gathering with friends, a cozy family dinner, or just a satisfying snack while binge-watching your favorite show. Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks take that dynamic duo and elevate it to a new level. Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, these treats pack a flavorful punch, making them an irresistible addition to any menu.
Why Make This Recipe
You might ask yourself, why put in the effort to whip up these delicious bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks? The answer is simple. They are not just a snack; they are an experience. Imagine biting into a crispy exterior to find a warm, cheesy center that stretches as you pull away. The addition of Nashville hot seasoning offers a spicy kick that tantalizes the taste buds.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests at your next gathering or craving something tasty for yourself, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, they are fun to make, simple to whip up, and give you a sense of accomplishment in your cooking. Who wouldn’t want a dish that instantly upgrades casual snacks into something extraordinary?
How to Make Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Preparing Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks is a delightful adventure. You will appreciate how straightforward the steps are. Whether you are an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this process is manageable and enjoyable.
Ingredients:
- Mozzarella sticks
- Bacon strips
- Nashville hot seasoning
- Flour
- Eggs
- Bread crumbs
- Oil for frying
Gather all your ingredients before you start. This way, you have everything at your fingertips, making it easier to follow through with the recipe.
Directions:
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Preheat your oil for frying. Aim for a temperature of about 350°F (175°C) for the best results. This ensures the bacon becomes crispy while the cheese inside becomes perfectly melted.
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Take a mozzarella stick and wrap it with a bacon strip, securing it with a toothpick. This step is crucial as it holds everything together during cooking.
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Dredge the bacon-wrapped mozzarella in flour, then dip it in beaten eggs, and finally coat it in bread crumbs. This three-step breading process creates a delightful crust.
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Sprinkle Nashville hot seasoning over the coated sticks. For those who like it spicy, feel free to add a little extra for a bolder flavor kick.
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Fry the sticks in hot oil until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted. This usually takes about 4 to 5 minutes, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
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Drain on paper towels and serve hot. This step is essential to keep your sticks from getting soggy.
How to Serve Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
These mozzarella sticks can be served in a variety of ways. For a classic approach, arrange them on a platter with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The rich, tangy flavors of the sauce complement the spicy bacon and gooey cheese beautifully.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with a drizzle of ranch dressing or a side of hot honey for an interesting contrast. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, can also elevate the presentation, adding a touch of color.
Incorporating them into a party spread as part of a cheese or appetizer board can also be a hit. Guests love to eat with their hands, making these sticks a perfect fit.
How to Store Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Proper storage is essential for enjoying leftover mozzarella sticks. If you have any leftovers (which is unlikely), allow them to cool completely after frying. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container.
You can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just make sure they are individually wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in a freezer-friendly bag. They can usually last in the freezer for about one to two months.
Tips to Make Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Getting the best results from your Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks involves a few useful tips:
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Choose the Right Mozzarella Sticks: Look for thick mozzarella sticks that can handle the frying process without breaking apart.
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Control the Oil Temperature: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. If the oil is not hot enough, the sticks can become greasy instead of crispy.
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Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many at once can lower the oil temperature dramatically. Fry in batches to keep the temperature consistent.
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Experiment with Spices: Adjust the amount of Nashville hot seasoning to suit your taste. If you enjoy heat, don’t be shy with the seasoning.
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Try Oven-Baking: If you want a lower-calorie version, consider baking them instead of frying. Simply place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 400°F (200°C) until crispy.
Variation
While the classic Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are undoubtedly delicious, there are some variations you can try to mix things up.
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Cheese Variations: Swap out mozzarella for other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for an interesting twist. Each cheese will bring its own flavor profile and melting characteristics.
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Stuffed Sticks: Before wrapping them in bacon, consider stuffing the sticks with ingredients like jalapeños or cream cheese for an added layer of flavor.
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Air Fryer Option: If you’re looking to cut down on oil, try making these in an air fryer. They will still come out crispy and delicious with less oil.
FAQs
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Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe?
Yes, pre-cooked bacon can be used. However, it may not crisp up as well as raw bacon. Freshly cooked bacon typically results in better texture and flavor. -
Can I make these mozzarella sticks ahead of time?
You can prepare and bread the mozzarella sticks ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to fry them. They can also be frozen before frying for future use. -
What dipping sauces go well with these sticks?
Marinara, ranch, and sweet chili sauce make excellent dipping options. You can also create a dipping sauce with yogurt and herbs for a refreshing contrast.
Making Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks is an exciting way to elevate your snack game. With their amazing flavors and delightful textures, these treats are sure to be a hit. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite as you share this culinary experience with friends and family.
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Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
- Total Time: 20
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
Crispy on the outside and melty on the inside, these Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are an irresistible snack that packs a flavorful punch.
Ingredients
- Mozzarella sticks
- Bacon strips
- Nashville hot seasoning
- Flour
- Eggs
- Bread crumbs
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Preheat oil for frying to about 350°F (175°C).
- Wrap a mozzarella stick with a bacon strip and secure with a toothpick.
- Dredge the bacon-wrapped mozzarella in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle Nashville hot seasoning over the coated sticks.
- Fry in hot oil until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Notes
For a classic serving, arrange sticks on a platter with marinara sauce. Alternatively, try ranch dressing or hot honey for dipping.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 5
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 35mg