Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks take the classic mozzarella stick to the next level with a bold, spicy Nashville hot glaze. These crunchy, gooey cheese sticks are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs, fried to golden perfection, and dipped in a buttery, cayenne-spiced sauce. Perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you’re craving an indulgent, fiery snack, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for the ultimate dipping experience!
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus 20-25 minutes freezing)
- Cook Time: 3-4 minutes
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (or Italian breadcrumbs)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Avocado oil (for frying)
For the Nashville Hot Glaze:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s RedHot)
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Mozzarella: Slice mozzarella into 3-inch sticks if not pre-cut.
- Set Up Breading Station: In separate bowls, place flour, beaten eggs, and a breadcrumb mixture combined with cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Sticks: Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, dip in egg, then press into the seasoned breadcrumbs. Repeat for a double coat.
- Freeze: Place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for 20-25 minutes.
- Fry: Heat oil to 375°F and fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack.
- Make the Nashville Hot Glaze: Melt butter in a saucepan, then whisk in cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, hot sauce, and salt.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks: Dip each fried mozzarella stick into the Nashville hot glaze.
- Serve: Arrange on a platter and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- To make them less spicy, reduce the cayenne and increase the butter in the glaze.
- Freezing the mozzarella sticks before frying helps them hold their shape.
