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Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Irresistible Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks with Bacon Bliss

Enjoy these Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks with a crispy bacon twist for a low-carb, flavorful appetizer perfect for any gathering.
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Prep Time 45 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 sticks
Course: Appetizers
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sticks
  • 12 sticks Mozzarella String Cheese Try flavored varieties for a fun twist.
  • 12 slices Thin-Cut Bacon Opt for high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
For the Hot Sauce Glaze
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 1 tablespoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust to match your preferred spiciness level.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Using smoked paprika introduces a lovely complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Substitute with fresh garlic if desired.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Fresh onion can also be used.
  • 2 teaspoons Brown Sugar Optional; skip for a strict keto approach.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Kosher or sea salt is ideal.
For Serving
  • 1 cup Dipping Sauces Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley Optional garnish.

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Oven
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Unwrap your mozzarella string cheese sticks and arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Place in the freezer for 30 to 45 minutes until firm but not completely frozen.
  2. Wrap each chilled mozzarella stick with a slice of thin-cut bacon, securing the ends with toothpicks if necessary.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) or oven to 400°F (205°C).
  4. Cook wrapped mozzarella sticks in the air fryer for 10 to 12 minutes or in the oven for 15 to 18 minutes.
  5. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat, then stir in cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar (if using), and a pinch of salt.
  6. Remove the cooked sticks from the air fryer or oven, and brush the hot sauce glaze generously over each one.
  7. Serve on a platter with dipping sauces.

Nutrition

Serving: 2sticksCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 20gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgSugar: 1gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Ensure mozzarella sticks are frozen before cooking to prevent oozing. Use high-quality bacon for best flavor.

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