Description
Crispy and spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are an irresistible appetizer featuring thick mozzarella sticks coated in a flavorful seasoned breadcrumb mixture, double breaded for extra crunch, then deep-fried to golden perfection. They are finished by dipping in a rich, spicy Nashville hot butter glaze that perfectly balances heat and sweetness. Serve these delicious sticks with ranch or blue cheese dressing for an unforgettable snack or party treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Mozzarella Sticks
- 1 lb block of whole milk mozzarella cheese, sliced into thick sticks (about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs, whisked
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Avocado oil, for frying (about 2 inches depth)
Nashville Hot Glaze
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp chili powder (optional)
- 2–3 tbsp hot sauce
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Slice Mozzarella: Cut the 1 lb block of mozzarella cheese into thick, rectangular sticks approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick to ensure they hold shape well during frying.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three separate bowls: one with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, one with 3 whisked eggs, and one with a breadcrumb mixture combining 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup plain breadcrumbs, 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Coat Mozzarella Sticks: Dredge each mozzarella stick first in the flour, then dip in the whisked eggs, and coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. For an extra-crispy crust, dip again in egg followed by another layer of breadcrumbs. Place the coated sticks on a tray.
- Freeze Breaded Sticks: Freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for 15 to 20 minutes. This step helps the coating adhere better and prevents melting during frying.
- Heat Oil: Pour avocado oil into a deep pan or skillet to a depth of about 2 inches and heat it to 375°F (190°C) to ensure proper frying temperature.
- Fry Mozzarella Sticks: Fry the frozen breaded mozzarella sticks in hot oil for 1 to 2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding and maintain oil temperature. Drain on a wire rack to remove excess oil.
- Prepare Nashville Hot Glaze: While frying, melt ½ cup unsalted butter in a saucepan. Stir in 2 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust based on heat preference), 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp chili powder (if using), 2 to 3 tbsp hot sauce, and salt to taste. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
- Coat Fried Mozzarella Sticks: Dip the hot fried mozzarella sticks into the spicy Nashville hot glaze, coating thoroughly for maximum flavor.
- Serve: Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping to complement the spicy, cheesy delight.
Notes
- Freezing the breaded sticks before frying is crucial to prevent cheese from oozing out too quickly.
- Use avocado oil or another high smoke-point oil to maintain frying temperature and achieve crispy texture.
- Adjust the cayenne and hot sauce quantities in the glaze to suit your preferred spice level.
- Double breading the mozzarella sticks ensures extra crunchiness and coating adhesion.
- Serve with cool, creamy dips like ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the spiciness.
- For a crispier crust, use a mix of panko and plain breadcrumbs as specified.
Keywords: Nashville hot mozzarella sticks, spicy appetizer, fried cheese sticks, Nashville hot sauce, crispy mozzarella, party appetizer