The moment you take a bite into the crispy exterior of these Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks, your taste buds will erupt in celebration! Not only do they deliver on that satisfying crunch, but they also offer a brilliant alternative for anyone looking to enjoy comfort food without the carbs. Each savory morsel is wrapped in smoky bacon and beautifully seasoned, making them a quick and easy crowd-pleaser perfect for game days or cozy nights in. Plus, with just a handful of straightforward ingredients, you’ll find yourself whipping these up in no time. Are you ready to elevate your snack game? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why are these mozzarella sticks a must-try?
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of smoky bacon and spicy seasoning enveloping gooey mozzarella creates a flavor explosion that you won’t forget.
Quick & Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delightful bites in the oven, making them the perfect snack solution for busy days.
Healthy Twist: These sticks offer a low-carb alternative to traditional snacks, allowing you to indulge without any guilt.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether at a party or a cozy night in, everyone will be asking for more of these delicious bites.
Versatile Serving Options: Pair them with a spicy hot sauce or a cooling dip for variety, ensuring every bite is a new taste adventure! For more delicious snack ideas, check out my healthy snack collection.
Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Ingredients
• Let’s gather the essentials for our savory snack!
For the Sticks
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese sticks – a gooey and melty base for your bites.
- 8 slices bacon – adds a smoky flavor and irresistible crunch.
For the Coating
- ½ cup almond flour – a low-carb alternative to traditional breadcrumbs.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese – enhances flavor and helps create a golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – adds aromatic depth to your sticks.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – complements the garlic and deepens the savory taste.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – gives a warm, smoky essence that’s simply delightful.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – injects heat for that Nashville hot vibe!
- 1 teaspoon salt – essential for balancing flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – adds a touch of spiciness and warmth.
For Dipping
- ¼ cup hot sauce – perfect for dipping to deliver an extra kick to your Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will create a non-stick surface for your Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks and help promote even cooking. Make sure your oven is fully warmed up before proceeding to ensure the bacon crisps perfectly.
Step 2: Cut the Cheese
Carefully cut each mozzarella cheese stick in half, creating 16 pieces ready to be wrapped. This step is key to achieving that perfect bite-sized indulgence! Set the cheese sticks aside while you prepare to wrap them with crispy bacon for maximum flavor.
Step 3: Mix the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed. This flavorful coating is essential for giving your Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks that crunchy texture!
Step 4: Wrap with Bacon
Take a slice of bacon and carefully wrap it around each cheese stick, ensuring that the entire cheese piece is well-covered. If necessary, secure each bacon-wrapped stick with a toothpick to maintain its shape during cooking. This step will lock in all those savory flavors that make these snacks so irresistible.
Step 5: Coat the Sticks
Roll each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick in your prepared almond flour mixture, making sure they are thoroughly coated. This creates a delightful crunch when baked and enhances the flavor profile. It’s crucial to ensure every inch is covered for maximum taste satisfaction!
Step 6: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Once coated, place each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick on the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them for even cooking. This spacing will allow the heat to circulate, ensuring that every stick achieves that crispy, golden perfection essential to the Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks.
Step 7: Bake Until Crispy
Bake your mozzarella sticks in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Turn them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. Watch closely; they’re done when the bacon is beautifully crispy and golden brown, making your kitchen smell heavenly as they cook!
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let your Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks cool for a few minutes. This cooling period allows the cheese to firm up slightly, making them easier to handle and enjoy.
Step 9: Serve with a Kick
Serve your delicious mozzarella sticks warm, accompanied by a bowl of hot sauce for dipping. The combination of spicy dipping sauce and cheesy, crispy bites makes for an irresistible snack that everyone will love!
What to Serve with Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
There’s nothing quite like complementing these crispy delights with the perfect sides that take your meal to the next level.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing contrast, this tangy slaw cuts through the rich flavors and adds a delightful crunch.
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Zesty Pickles: Their sharpness and crunch provide a palate-cleansing balance to the savory bacon-wrapped goodness.
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Spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: For an extra kick, these offer a great textural complement while staying on the low-carb path.
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Refreshing Cucumber Salad: The crispness of cucumbers and tangy dressing for a cool and refreshing counterpoint to the heat.
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Roasted Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy and savory, this low-carb mash serves as a wonderful base to soak up flavors from your mozzarella sticks.
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Craft Beer: Pairing with a cold, hoppy brew enhances the richness of your sticks while providing a perfect excuse for laughter and good company!
Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Variations
Feel free to customize your Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks with these exciting twists that will make your taste buds dance!
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Cheesy Blend: Mix different cheeses, like pepper jack or cheddar, with mozzarella for a flavorful twist. The added creaminess elevates every bite!
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Spicy Ranch: Swap out hot sauce for spicy ranch dressing as your dipping sauce, creating a creamy, zesty complement. Ideal for those who love a little extra kick!
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Herbed Coating: Add dried herbs, such as oregano or basil, to the almond flour mixture for an aromatic herbaceous twist. This variation brings a burst of fresh flavor!
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Crunchy Sweetness: Incorporate crushed pork rinds into the coating for an extra crunch and hint of sweetness. It’s an unexpected surprise that adds texture and flavor!
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BBQ Flair: Replace the hot sauce with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, sweet dip. This variation transforms the sticks into a tangy treat that’s irresistible!
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute bacon with eggplant or zucchini slices for a delicious vegetarian version. Bake until crispy for a healthier alternative without losing flavor!
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Extra Heat: For those who crave spice, add more cayenne pepper or even chopped jalapeños to the bacon wrap. Get ready for a fiery flavor explosion!
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Low-Sodium Swap: Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a leaner, low-sodium option without sacrificing taste. It's a wholesome twist everyone will appreciate!
For more tasty ideas to elevate your snacking, be sure to check out my healthy snack collection and discover delightful recipes waiting to inspire you!
Make Ahead Options
These Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are ideal for meal prep, giving you more time to relax and enjoy! You can prepare the bacon-wrapped cheese sticks up to 24 hours before you plan to bake them. Simply follow all the steps through to coating, then place the prepared sticks on a baking sheet, cover them with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. To maintain that crispy texture, ensure they are tightly wrapped to prevent moisture. When you're ready to serve, just remove them from the fridge and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, for deliciously crisp, melty perfection with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
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Choose Quality Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for a crispier texture and richer flavor; thin bacon can lead to soggy sticks and uneven cooking.
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Perfect Cheese: Opt for part-skim mozzarella sticks as they melt perfectly while maintaining their shape, keeping your Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks intact.
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Coating Consistency: Ensure that the almond flour mixture is mixed well to avoid clumps; this helps the coating adhere better and promotes an even crunch.
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Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet—leave enough space between the sticks so the bacon crisps evenly; otherwise, they may steam instead of bake.
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Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on baking time as ovens vary; look for a golden brown color and crispy edges that signal the perfect bite-sized indulgence ready to enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
Fridge: Store leftover Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps keep them fresh and ready for your next snack attack!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place the sticks on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, enjoy them at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigeration to keep that delectable flavor intact.
Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose mozzarella cheese sticks?
Absolutely! When selecting mozzarella cheese sticks, look for those that are part-skim or low-fat, as they melt beautifully without losing shape. Also, check for freshness by ensuring the packaging is intact and that the expiration date is not close. The cheese should be firm to the touch without any dark spots or signs of spoilage.
How should I store the leftover mozzarella sticks?
Very good question! To store your Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for your next craving! If you want to enjoy them later, try freezing them for better preservation.
Can I freeze these mozzarella sticks?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, first bake your Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks as directed. Allow them to cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze for about 1 to 2 hours until fully frozen. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. They will keep well for up to 3 months!
What should I do if the cheese leaks out while baking?
Oh no! If you find that the cheese is leaking during baking, don’t worry—it happens! To prevent this, ensure that your mozzarella sticks are wrapped tightly in bacon and securely held with toothpicks. If leakage does occur, try lowering the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake them for a bit longer, which helps set the cheese without it oozing out. Keep an eye on them!
Are there any dietary considerations for these sticks?
Definitely! For those with dietary restrictions, you can easily adjust this recipe. If you have nut allergies, consider using crushed pork rinds or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of almond flour. Additionally, to keep it low-carb, ensure your bacon is sugar-free. And remember, it's best to serve these delicacies to humans only as rich and cheesy snacks might not be suitable for pets.
How long can the mozzarella sticks sit out before going bad?
Great inquiry! If you have leftover Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks, they can safely sit at room temperature for about 2 hours before needing to be refrigerated. This ensures that they maintain their delicious flavor while keeping safety in mind. Always trust your taste buds and visual cues—if in doubt, it's better to refrigerate!
Low Carb Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks Bliss
Equipment
- Oven
- baking sheet
- parchment paper
- Shallow bowl
- Toothpicks
Ingredients
For the Sticks
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese sticks a gooey and melty base for your bites.
- 8 slices bacon adds a smoky flavor and irresistible crunch.
For the Coating
- ½ cup almond flour a low-carb alternative to traditional breadcrumbs.
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese enhances flavor and helps create a golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder adds aromatic depth to your sticks.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder complements the garlic and deepens the savory taste.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika gives a warm, smoky essence that’s simply delightful.
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper injects heat for that Nashville hot vibe!
- 1 teaspoon salt essential for balancing flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper adds a touch of spiciness and warmth.
For Dipping
- ¼ cup hot sauce perfect for dipping to deliver an extra kick.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Carefully cut each mozzarella cheese stick in half, creating 16 pieces.
- In a shallow bowl, combine the almond flour, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.
- Wrap each cheese stick in a slice of bacon, ensuring they are well-covered.
- Roll each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick in the almond flour mixture, ensuring they are thoroughly coated.
- Place each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between them.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and golden brown.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve warm with a bowl of hot sauce for dipping.
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