Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy, cheesy, and irresistible appetizer that’s perfect for parties, game days, or casual snacking. Crispy bacon wraps around gooey mozzarella, and a Nashville hot seasoning kick gives it the perfect heat.

This recipe combines southern-inspired flavors with a fun finger food presentation. Each bite delivers melty cheese, smoky bacon, and a little spicy heat that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

For the Sticks:

• 12 mozzarella sticks
• 12 slices bacon
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp Nashville hot seasoning

For Frying:

• Vegetable oil for deep frying

Instructions

1. Prep Mozzarella Sticks: Wrap each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
2. Coat the Sticks: Dredge each bacon-wrapped stick in flour, then dip in beaten egg, and finally coat with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Nashville hot seasoning.
3. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry Sticks: Fry the sticks in batches for 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Serve: Serve immediately with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Extra cheesy: Use mozzarella string cheese for better melt and stretch.
• Make ahead: Wrap and coat sticks ahead of time, freeze, then fry when needed.
• Spicy level: Adjust Nashville hot seasoning to taste.
• Baking option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes instead of frying for a lighter version.

Fun Facts

The Nashville hot flavor originated in Nashville, Tennessee, famous for its fried chicken. This recipe adapts that iconic spice blend for cheesy, finger-friendly appetizers, combining southern heat with universally loved mozzarella sticks.

Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks with a spicy Nashville hot kick, perfect for parties and game day.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 minutes mins

Total Time 18 minutes mins

Servings: 12 pieces

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 280

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Mozzarella Sticks

• 12 mozzarella sticks
• 12 bacon slices
• 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tbsp Nashville hot seasoning

Frying

• vegetable oil for deep frying

Equipment

• Deep skillet or fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Method

 

1. Wrap each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
2. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten egg, coat with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Nashville hot seasoning.
3. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry sticks 2–3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve immediately with dipping sauce.

Notes

Freeze prepped sticks for make-ahead convenience before frying.