Craving a spicy, smoky, cheesy appetizer that’s guaranteed to wow? These Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are everything you love about indulgent snacks, ooey-gooey mozzarella wrapped in crispy bacon with that bold Nashville hot seasoning kick. They’re baked or air-fried until sizzling, creating a flavor explosion with every bite. Perfect for game day, holiday parties, or a fiery twist on movie night snacks, this recipe turns a classic mozzarella stick into a crowd-pleasing treat with Southern heat. Easy to prep ahead and totally irresistible, these are the ultimate hot-and-cheesy party bites that bring heat and comfort in one addictive package.
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese, unwrapped)
- 12 slices thin-cut bacon
- 2 tablespoons Nashville hot seasoning blend (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or melted butter
- Ranch dressing or blue cheese for dipping (optional)
- Toothpicks (optional, for holding during baking)
Preparation
Step 1:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Step 2:
In a small bowl, mix the Nashville hot seasoning with brown sugar and olive oil or butter until it forms a paste.
Step 3:
Lay out the bacon slices and brush one side lightly with the seasoning paste.
Step 4:
Wrap each mozzarella stick tightly with a seasoned bacon slice, starting from one end and spiraling down to cover completely. Secure with a toothpick if needed.
Step 5:
Place the wrapped sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 6:
Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and the cheese starts to melt. For air fryer: cook in batches for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.
Step 7:
Let rest for 2 minutes to set. Serve warm with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.
Variations
- Swap bacon for turkey bacon for a leaner option
- Use pepper jack cheese sticks for an even spicier version
- Add a thin slice of jalapeño under the bacon for extra heat
- Use different cheese shapes or mini mozzarella balls for bite-sized versions
- Roll the finished sticks in crushed spicy cornflakes for extra crunch
Cooking Notes
- Freeze mozzarella sticks for 30 minutes before wrapping to prevent over-melting
- Thin bacon crisps better and wraps easier than thick-cut
- Don’t overbake or cheese may fully escape the bacon wrap
- If using toothpicks, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning
- Nashville hot seasoning can be homemade with cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with cold ranch dip to contrast the heat
- Add to a spicy charcuterie board with pickles and crackers
- Offer as a fiery side to burgers or sliders
- Pair with sweet potato fries for a Southern-inspired plate
- Use mini versions for party skewers or appetizer trays
Tips
- Chill the wrapped sticks before baking for cleaner results
- Double-wrap with bacon if using thick mozzarella
- Adjust spice level by reducing cayenne in your seasoning
- These can be made ahead and reheated just before serving
- Air fryer method gives a crispier finish with less grease
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 12 sticks
Yield: Serves 6–8 as an appetizer
Nutritional Information (Per Stick):
Calories: 190
Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 12g
Sodium: 380mg
Sugar: 1g
FAQs
Can I use homemade mozzarella sticks?
- Yes, but make sure they’re frozen solid before wrapping or the cheese may melt too fast.
Can I freeze these before cooking?
- Yes. Prepare and freeze on a tray, then bake directly from frozen. Add 3–5 minutes to cook time.
How spicy is Nashville hot seasoning?
- It’s bold and spicy with cayenne as the base. Adjust to your heat preference by tweaking the blend.
Can I use other types of cheese?
- Yes. Try cheddar sticks, Monterey jack, or provolone for different flavor profiles.
What’s the best dipping sauce?
- Ranch or blue cheese is classic, but spicy mayo, garlic aioli, or even honey mustard are great too.
Conclusion
Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate fusion of spicy, smoky, and cheesy. They’re bold, indulgent, and simple to make, perfect for spicing up any party or snack platter. With crispy bacon wrapping molten cheese and a generous layer of fiery Nashville seasoning, these bites are sure to become your new go-to appetizer. Serve them hot with a cool dipping sauce and watch them disappear from the plate. Whether baked or air-fried, they deliver irresistible crunch and gooey melt with every fiery bite.