Print

Crispy and Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 14 reviews

Crispy and Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks feature thick mozzarella cheese sticks double-coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, deep-fried to golden perfection, and then dipped in a spicy, tangy cayenne butter glaze. This appetizer combines crunchy, cheesy goodness with a bold Nashville hot twist, perfect for game days or flavorful snacking.

Ingredients

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 (enough to fill 2 inches deep)

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

  1. Slice the Cheese: Cut the 1 lb block of whole milk mozzarella cheese into thick sticks approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick to ensure they hold shape when frying.
  2. Prepare Coating Bowls: Set up three bowls: one with 1 cup all-purpose flour, the second with 3 whisked eggs, and the third with a mix of 1 cup panko breadcrumbs and 1 cup plain breadcrumbs combined with 1 tsp cayenne pepper, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick first into the flour, then into the whisked eggs, and then into the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs once more for a double coating. Place the coated sticks on a tray.
  4. Freeze the Coated Sticks: Freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for 15-20 minutes. This step helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
  5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Heat about 2 inches of avocado oil in a deep pan or fryer to 375°F (190°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks for 1-2 minutes or until they turn golden brown. Remove and drain them on a wire rack to eliminate excess oil.
  6. Prepare the Nashville Hot Glaze: In a saucepan over low heat, melt ½ cup unsalted butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional), 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce, and salt to taste. Whisk the mixture until smooth and fully combined.
  7. Coat with the Spicy Glaze: Dip the hot fried mozzarella sticks into the spicy Nashville hot glaze, coating them thoroughly. Serve immediately while hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Notes

  • Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents cheese from oozing out.
  • You can adjust the cayenne pepper in both the breadcrumb coating and glaze to control the spice level.
  • Use avocado oil or another high smoke point oil for frying to ensure a crispy exterior without burning.
  • Serve immediately for best texture; the sticks are crispiest and warmest right after glazing.
  • Optional chili powder in the glaze adds an extra layer of smokiness and heat.

Find it online: https://dishcooks.com/crispy-and-spicy-nashville-hot-mozzarella-sticks-recipe/