Description
Crispy and spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a deliciously addictive appetizer featuring thick mozzarella sticks double-breaded and fried to golden perfection, then coated with a fiery buttery glaze inspired by Nashville hot chicken flavors. Perfect for those who love the combination of gooey cheese with a spicy kick and crispy crust.
Ingredients
Mozzarella Sticks
- 1 lb block of whole milk mozzarella cheese (sliced into thick sticks)
- 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)
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 the Mozzarella: Slice 1 lb block of mozzarella cheese into thick rectangular sticks about 3 inches long and ½ inch thick for the perfect cheese pull and frying consistency.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three bowls—one with 1 cup flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with a mixture of 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup plain breadcrumbs, 1 tsp cayenne, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp onion powder, salt, and pepper—to coat the cheese sticks.
- Coat the Cheese Sticks: Dredge each mozzarella stick first in flour, then in egg, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, dip again in egg and breadcrumbs for a double coating, then place on a tray.
- Freeze the Breaded Sticks: Freeze the coated mozzarella sticks for 15-20 minutes to ensure they keep their shape when frying and prevent the cheese from melting out too quickly.
- Fry the Sticks: Heat about 2 inches of avocado oil in a pan to 375°F. Fry the sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack to keep crisp.
- Make the Nashville Hot Glaze: In a saucepan, melt the butter, then whisk in cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder (if using), hot sauce, and salt until smooth and spicy.
- Glaze and Serve: Immediately dip or brush the fried mozzarella sticks in the hot glaze to coat them thoroughly. Serve right away with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Freezing the breaded sticks before frying helps prevent cheese from oozing out and ensures a crispy crust.
- Adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce quantities to control spiciness according to your preference.
- Use a candy thermometer to monitor oil temperature for safe and effective frying.
- Serve immediately after glazing to enjoy the cheese sticks at their crispiest and most flavorful.
- Great as an appetizer or snack for parties and game days.
