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### **How to Make Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks**
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Cheese Sticks**
– Cut each mozzarella stick in half to make 16 smaller pieces. This size makes them easier to handle and ensures a perfect bacon-to-cheese ratio.
#### **Step 2: Wrap with Bacon**
– Take a slice of bacon and wrap it tightly around each piece of mozzarella, overlapping slightly to ensure full coverage. Secure with a toothpick at the ends to hold the bacon in place.
#### **Step 3: Coat with Nashville Hot Seasoning**
– Sprinkle Nashville hot seasoning generously over the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks, coating all sides for an even spicy kick.
#### **Step 4: Cook the Mozzarella Sticks**
**Air Fryer Method:**
– Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the bacon-wrapped sticks in a single layer in the basket. Spray lightly with oil for extra crispiness. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the bacon is crisp and golden.
**Oven Method:**
– Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for 15-18 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is crispy.
**Frying Method:**
– Heat about 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes, until golden and crispy.
#### **Step 5: Serve Hot**
– Remove the toothpicks and serve the mozzarella sticks immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
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### **Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks**
– **Freeze Before Cooking**: Freezing the bacon-wrapped mozzarella sticks for 30 minutes before cooking prevents the cheese from oozing out.
– **Thin-Cut Bacon is Key**: Thin slices cook faster and crisp up nicely.
– **Control the Spice**: Mix the Nashville hot seasoning with a bit of brown sugar if you prefer a milder flavor.
– **Work in Batches**: Avoid overcrowding your air fryer or skillet for even cooking.
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### **Perfect Pairings**
These fiery mozzarella sticks are best enjoyed with:
– **Dips**: Cool ranch, blue cheese dressing, or a sweet honey mustard sauce.
– **Beverages**: Ice-cold beer or a refreshing lemonade to balance the heat.
– **Side Snacks**: Pair with fries or a crunchy coleslaw for a complete spread.
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### **Why This Recipe is a Winner**
Nashville Hot Bacon-Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks take everything you love about cheesy snacks and kick it up a notch with bold heat and smoky bacon. The spicy coating pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese, making each bite a perfect blend of indulgence and flavor. Whether you’re serving these at a party or treating yourself to a snack, they’re bound to steal the spotlight.
Try them today for a spicy, crispy, cheesy delight that’s sure to impress! 🔥🧀🥓
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