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Crispy and Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Crispy and Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 7 reviews

Crispy and Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a bold twist on classic fried cheese sticks. Coated in a flavorful blend of spices and double-breaded for extra crunch, these mozzarella sticks are fried to golden perfection and drenched in a spicy, buttery Nashville hot sauce with cayenne and smoked paprika. Perfect as a snack or appetizer for those who love a fiery kick and gooey cheese.

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

Spicy Nashville Hot Sauce 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 into thick rectangular sticks, approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
  2. Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three bowls: one with 1 cup all-purpose flour, one with 3 whisked eggs, and one with a mixture of 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. This seasoned breadcrumb mix adds the spicy, smoky flavor and crunch.
  3. Double Coat the Cheese Sticks: First, coat each mozzarella stick in flour, then dip in the whisked eggs, and coat well in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs to create a double coating, enhancing crispiness and preventing cheese leakage while frying. Place the coated sticks on a tray.
  4. Freeze the Breaded Sticks: Freeze the coated mozzarella sticks for 15-20 minutes. This step is crucial to prevent the cheese from melting too fast and leaking during frying.
  5. Fry the Sticks: Heat about 2 inches of avocado oil in a deep pan or fryer to 375°F (190°C). Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Use a wire rack to drain excess oil and maintain crispness.
  6. Make the Nashville Hot Sauce Glaze: In a saucepan, melt ½ cup unsalted butter. Whisk in 2 tbsp cayenne pepper, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp chili powder (optional), 2-3 tbsp hot sauce, and salt to taste until smooth. This spicy, sweet, and tangy glaze is the signature of the dish.
  7. Glaze and Serve: Immediately dip the hot fried mozzarella sticks into the Nashville hot sauce glaze, coating them thoroughly. Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping to balance the heat.

Notes

  • Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents cheese from oozing out.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper and hot sauce according to your spice tolerance.
  • Use avocado oil or another high smoke point oil for frying to ensure crispiness without burning.
  • Serve immediately after glazing for the best texture and flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute flour and breadcrumbs with certified gluten-free alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: Nashville hot mozzarella sticks, spicy fried cheese sticks, crispy mozzarella, Nashville hot sauce recipe, appetizer, spicy snack

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