Nashville Hot Turkey Mozzarella Sticks (Print-Friendly Version)
Smoky turkey bacon and spiced mozzarella make these easy, crowd-pleasing bites with a Nashville-style kick.
# Ingredients You’ll Need:
→ Main Components
01 -
12 pieces mozzarella string cheese
02 -
12 slices turkey bacon
→ Breading Elements
03 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
04 -
2 large eggs
05 -
1 tablespoon whole milk
06 -
1 1/2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
→ Seasoning
07 -
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
08 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 -
1 tablespoon hot sauce
→ Frying
10 -
Vegetable oil for frying or air fryer spray
# How to Make It:
01 -
Unwrap mozzarella string cheese and freeze for 30 minutes to ensure firmness and prevent excess melting during cooking.
02 -
Individually wrap each chilled mozzarella stick tightly with a slice of turkey bacon, securing ends with toothpicks if necessary. Freeze wrapped sticks for an additional 15 minutes.
03 -
Arrange three separate bowls: pour flour into the first bowl; whisk eggs, milk, and hot sauce together in the second bowl; combine seasoned breadcrumbs, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika in the third bowl.
04 -
Dredge each bacon-wrapped stick in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally roll in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture ensuring a complete coating.
05 -
Place fully coated sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for 15–20 minutes to help maintain shape during frying.
06 -
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or use an air fryer at 400°F (205°C). Fry or air fry sticks in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. Drain on paper towels before serving.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Freezing between stages is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior and preventing the cheese from melting out during cooking.