This recipe is the South's well kept secret! It's the star of any party

Nashville Hot Bacon Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks are a delightful twist on the classic appetizer, combining the spicy kick of Nashville hot chicken with the gooey goodness of mozzarella sticks. I first stumbled upon this idea during a weekend trip to Nashville, where the vibrant food scene left a lasting impression on me. These mozzarella sticks are perfect for game day, a casual get-together, or when you just need a little comfort food with a kick. They're easy to make and sure to impress your friends and family.

These mozzarella sticks pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some celery and carrot sticks to balance out the heat. You could also serve them alongside a creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. If you're hosting a party, consider adding some sweet potato fries or a light coleslaw to round out the meal.

Servings: 4

8 mozzarella sticks
8 slices of bacon
1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank's RedHot)
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Toothpicks

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Wrap each mozzarella stick with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with a toothpick.

In a small bowl, mix together the hot sauce, melted butter, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

Brush the hot sauce mixture generously over each bacon-wrapped mozzarella stick.

Place the sticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the cheese is melted.

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

For a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or use a milder hot sauce. If you prefer a smokier flavor, try adding a bit more smoked paprika. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack or cheddar, for a different taste. For a gluten-free option, ensure that your hot sauce and spices are certified gluten-free.