Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

If you’re looking for a snack that brings a bit of excitement to your taste buds, look no further! Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are here to steal the show. They perfectly combine crispy beef bacon and gooey mozzarella cheese with a kick of heat that makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s game day or just a cozy night at home, these tasty treats are sure to impress your family and friends.

What I love about this recipe is not just the flavor but how simple it is to whip up. It’s one of those go-to recipes that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re great for sharing—everyone will want to dive into this crunchy, cheesy goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these delicious snacks ready in no time.
• Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore the combination of flavors and textures.
• Perfect for any occasion: Game nights, movie marathons, or even casual gatherings—these sticks fit right in!
• Customizable heat: Adjust the Nashville hot seasoning to your preferred spice level for everyone’s enjoyment.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare them ahead of time and fry them just before serving for a fresh experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks use simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful treat!

• Beef Bacon
• Fresh Mozzarella Sticks
• Nashville Hot Seasoning
• Flour
• Eggs
• Cooking Oil

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients or spices.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon instead of beef bacon for a lighter option while still enjoying that crispy texture.
• Cheese twist: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack or cheddar for added flavor.
• Spice it up: Add some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes inside the wrap for an extra kick.
• Veggie version: For a meatless take, use plant-based bacon alternatives and enjoy all the flavor without animal products.

How to Make Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Cheese

Start by cutting the mozzarella sticks in half if they’re too long. This step makes it much easier to wrap them in bacon. Plus, smaller portions are great for snacking!

Step 2: Season the Bacon

Take your beef bacon slices and sprinkle the Nashville hot seasoning generously over them. This ensures every bite has that signature spicy flavor we’re going for—trust me; it makes all the difference!

Step 3: Wrap It Up

Now it’s time to wrap! Take a half mozzarella stick and cover it completely with a slice of seasoned beef bacon. You can secure the ends with toothpicks if needed to keep everything in place while frying.

Step 4: Set Up Your Breading Station

In one bowl, add flour; in another bowl, beat some eggs. These will create a delicious coating on our mozzarella sticks, making them crispy when cooked.

Step 5: Coat Your Sticks

Dip each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and back into the flour for double coating. This extra layer will give your sticks an amazing crunch that everyone will love!

Step 6: Heat Things Up

In a deep pan or fryer, heat oil to 350°F (175°C). If you’re using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Getting the oil hot enough is key—it helps your mozzarella sticks become golden brown without absorbing too much oil.

Step 7: Frying Time!

Carefully place your coated mozzarella sticks into the hot oil and fry them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re golden brown. If you’re using an air fryer, cook them for about 8-10 minutes while shaking halfway through for even cooking.

Step 8: Drain Excess Oil

Once they’re beautifully golden brown, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate. This step helps drain any excess oil so they remain crispy!

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve these delicious mozzarella sticks hot! Drizzle with some extra Nashville hot seasoning or pair them with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch or blue cheese. Enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Making the perfect Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks is all about attention to detail and a hint of creativity! Here are some pro tips to elevate your cooking game.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh mozzarella sticks and high-quality beef bacon. This ensures a delicious flavor that shines through every bite.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: If you’re frying, use a meat thermometer to check the oil temperature. This will help achieve that perfect crispy texture without burning the bacon or cheese.
• Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the amount of Nashville hot seasoning based on your spice preference. A little extra can add an exciting kick!
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many sticks at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy results. Fry in batches for that perfect crunch!
• Let Them Cool Slightly: Allowing the mozzarella sticks to cool for a minute after frying helps the cheese set slightly, making them easier to eat without oozing out.

How to Serve Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

These delectable treats not only taste fantastic but also present beautifully! Here are some ideas on how to serve them up for maximum enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who love extra heat, sliced jalapeños can add a zesty touch that complements the spicy flavors.
• Drizzle of Honey: A light drizzle of honey over the sticks offers a delightful sweet contrast to the spiciness, creating a perfect flavor balance.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Veggie Fries: Think sweet potato or zucchini fries—these provide a satisfying crunch and pair wonderfully with cheesy goodness.
• Creamy Coleslaw: The coolness and crunch of coleslaw contrast beautifully with the warm, spicy mozzarella sticks, making it an ideal side.
• Classic Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer heartiness and balance out the meal while being easy to dip in your favorite sauce.
• Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: These spicy bites are a fantastic vegetarian option that mirrors the heat of your mozzarella sticks while adding variety to your snack spread.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks will surely be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy every crispy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, making them a great option for game day, parties, or just a cozy night in.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the mozzarella sticks to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate.
• They will keep well for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked mozzarella sticks.
• Lay them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, ensuring they are well-sealed.
• Use within 2-3 months for the best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in an air fryer or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks.

Can I use regular bacon instead of beef bacon for Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks?

While this recipe specifically calls for beef bacon, you can substitute it with turkey bacon if desired. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.

How spicy are Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks?

The spice level will depend on the amount of Nashville hot seasoning you use when coating the beef bacon. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference!

What dipping sauces go well with Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks?

Classic choices include ranch dressing or blue cheese dip. You might also enjoy them with a tangy marinara sauce or even a sweet chili sauce for a delightful contrast!

Can I make Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sticks ahead of time and store them in the fridge or even freeze them. This makes it easy to have a delicious snack ready whenever you want!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Nashville Hot Beef Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks! They’re not only packed with flavor but also bring a fun twist to your snacking routine. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on your own, they’re sure to be a hit! Enjoy every gooey, spicy bite and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!