Introduction

If you're seeking a bold and satisfying twist on a classic snack, look no further than Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks. These crunchy, cheesy delights pack a punch thanks to their spicy seasoning and crispy bacon wrapping.

Perfect for game day, a casual get-together, or an indulgent movie night, this recipe offers a decadent combination of gooey mozzarella and the irresistible crunch of bacon. Let’s dive into the ingredients and preparation to create a dish that will steal the spotlight at your next gathering.

Ingredients

8 ounces mozzarella cheese sticks
The star of the dish, mozzarella cheese sticks provide a melty, gooey texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy bacon wrapping.
8 slices of bacon
Bacon adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor, enhancing the overall experience of each bite with its smoky goodness.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
This is used for dredging the cheese sticks, creating a barrier that helps seal in the cheese while it melts and provides a crispy exterior.
2 large eggs
Eggs act as a binder in the breading process, helping the flour and seasoning adhere to the cheese sticks, resulting in a cohesive coating.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving that extra crunch and texture on the mozzarella sticks, giving them a satisfying bite.
1/4 cup Nashville hot chicken seasoning
This spice blend, characterized by its fiery kick, gives the dish its unique and incendiary flavor, making each bite a mouthful of excitement.
Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)
A neutral oil is necessary for frying the sticks to perfection, ensuring they cook evenly and acquire that desirable golden brown color.

Directions & Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the cheese sticks by cutting them in half.

Cutting the cheese sticks in half creates manageable portions that are easier to wrap and fry. Shorter sticks also allow for a more consistent cooking time, ensuring a perfect melt without overcooking the bacon.

Step 2: Wrap each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.

By wrapping the bacon snugly around the cheese, you create a uniform surface for frying. This will help prevent the cheese from oozing out while cooking, maintaining the integrity of the stick.

Step 3: In three separate bowls, set up your breading station: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Nashville hot seasoning.

Establishing a dedicated breading station allows for efficient and thorough coating of the mozzarella sticks. This multilayered approach, starting with flour and ending with panko, ensures a crispy finish that holds up during frying.

Step 4: Dredge each bacon-wrapped cheese stick in flour, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture.

This triple-layer coating methodology locks in moisture and flavor while providing a crunchy shell. It’s crucial to ensure an even coverage for the best texture and flavor.

Step 5: Heat oil in a deep skillet over medium heat until shimmering hot, approximately 350°F (175°C).

Getting the oil to the right temperature is essential—too low, and the cheese will leak out; too high, and the exterior will burn before the inside melts. A thermometer can be very helpful here.

Step 6: Carefully place the breaded sticks in the hot oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Frying in batches allows the mozzarella sticks to cook evenly by ensuring sufficient space for the hot oil to circulate. Keep an eye on them; they usually need about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.

Step 7: Once golden and crispy, remove the sticks from the oil and let them drain on paper towels.

Draining excess oil is crucial to achieving that crispy texture without the greasiness. Letting the sticks sit a moment ensures they maintain their integrity.

Step 8: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Serving the Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks immediately maximizes their flavors and textures. Pair them with a cooling ranch or spicy dipping sauce to balance the heat.

Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks step photo

The Magic of Bacon and Cheese Fusion

Bacon and mozzarella have long been favorites among snack lovers, but wrapping one around the other elevates this classic combination to new heights. The bacon, once cooked, adds a crispy exterior while the cheese remains gooey and delicious inside. This perfect contrast not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a delightful textural experience that keeps you coming back for more.

Fire Up the Spice with Nashville Heat

What sets Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks apart from ordinary snacks is the fiery Nashville hot seasoning. This spice blend, with its rich flavors and intense heat, infuses every bite with a flavorful kick that excites the palate. It’s a celebration of southern flavors that will tantalize those who love a little heat in their dishes.

Perfect Pairings: Dipping Sauces

These spicy mozzarella sticks shine even brighter when paired with the right dipping sauces. A cooling ranch offers a pleasant contrast to the heat, while a zesty hot sauce brings the fire front and center. You can even opt for an herb-infused aioli for a gourmet twist. Each dip enhances the overall flavor profile, making for a more varied and enjoyable snacking experience.

FAQs

What can I do if the cheese begins to leak during frying?

If the cheese starts leaking, it may mean the oil is too hot. Monitor the temperature closely and reduce the heat slightly to allow the cheese to melt without escaping.

Can I use cheese sticks other than mozzarella?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack, but be mindful of their melting properties, as some may leak more than others.

Why did my mozzarella sticks turn out soggy?

Soggy mozzarella sticks could be a result of not frying them at a high enough temperature or overcrowding the pan, which prevents proper crisping.

What type of oil is best for frying these sticks?

Vegetable or canola oil is ideal due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors, which won't interfere with the taste of the sticks.

Is there a way to make these sticks less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, you can either lessen the amount of Nashville hot seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture or serve them with a cooling dipping sauce.

What do I do if my breadcrumb coating is falling off?

Make sure to coat the sticks thoroughly with the flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. Additionally, pressing the breadcrumbs firmly onto the mozzarella sticks can help them adhere better.

How do I know when the mozzarella sticks are done frying?

You’ll know they’re done when they are uniformly golden brown and crispy. You can use a slotted spoon to monitor their color and texture.

Conclusion

Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are a perfect showcase of bold flavors and delightful textures, ensuring they will be a hit at any gathering. The combination of spicy, crunchy, and gooey makes them irresistibly addictive.

So fire up your stove and try making these delightful snacks. Once you bite into that crispy exterior and gooey center, you’ll understand why they deserve a spot in your recipe repertoire.

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