Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Introduction

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy twist on a classic favorite. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these cheese sticks are coated in a bold, flavorful hot butter sauce that packs a punch. Perfect for game day or a fun appetizer for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1½ cups seasoned panko breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
• Cooking oil (for frying)

For the Nashville Hot Coating:

• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour. This prevents them from melting too quickly when frying.
2. Step 2: Prepare the breading station by placing flour in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Step 3: Dip each frozen mozzarella stick into the flour, coating evenly. Then dip into the egg mixture, followed by rolling in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a double layer. Place coated sticks back in the freezer for 30 minutes to set.
4. Step 4: Heat cooking oil in a deep pan to 375°F (190°C). Fry 3-4 mozzarella sticks at a time for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. Step 5: In a bowl, combine melted butter, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until well mixed. Brush or toss the hot butter mixture over the fried mozzarella sticks to coat them evenly.
6. Step 6: Serve immediately with your choice of ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, double-dip the mozzarella sticks in egg and breadcrumbs before freezing.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper in the coating to control the heat level.
• Use a deep fryer or a heavy pot to maintain consistent oil temperature and prevent soggy sticks.
• Try swapping mozzarella for halloumi or provolone for a different cheese experience.

Storage

Store any leftover coated but uncooked mozzarella sticks in the freezer for up to 1 month. After frying and coating, leftovers are best eaten immediately but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may cause the coating to become soggy and the cheese to melt too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I bake these instead of frying?

While frying yields the crispiest texture, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. However, they may not be as crispy as the fried version.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying?

Freezing the mozzarella sticks before breading and frying is key. Also, double coating with egg and breadcrumbs helps form a thicker crust that seals in the cheese.