Crispy and Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
These Crispy and Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks offer a fiery twist on a classic appetizer. Thick mozzarella sticks are double coated with a flavorful spiced breadcrumb mixture, deep-fried to golden perfection, and then dunked in a rich, buttery cayenne glaze for an irresistible blend of creamy, crunchy, and spicy flavors perfect for any gathering.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
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, about 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
- Slice the Cheese: Cut 1 lb block of whole milk mozzarella into thick rectangular sticks approximately 3 inches in length and ½ inch in thickness to ensure they hold together during frying.
- Prepare Coating Stations: Set up three separate 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.
- Coat the Mozzarella: Dip each mozzarella stick first in the flour, then the egg, followed by the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. For extra crispiness, dip again in the egg and breadcrumbs for a double coating. Lay coated sticks on a tray to prep for freezing.
- Freeze the Sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks in the freezer for 15-20 minutes. This step helps the coating adhere better and prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or a heavy pan, heat about 2 inches of avocado oil to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to maintain accurate temperature for consistent frying.
- Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Fry the frozen sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on a wire rack to drain excess oil.
- Prepare the Nashville Hot Glaze: In a saucepan, melt ½ cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in 2 tbsp cayenne pepper, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp chili powder (if using), 2-3 tbsp hot sauce, and salt to taste. Whisk the mixture until smooth and fragrant.
- Glaze the Mozzarella Sticks: Immediately dip the hot fried mozzarella sticks into the spicy butter glaze, coating them thoroughly to enhance flavor and heat.
- Serve: Arrange the glazed mozzarella sticks on a serving platter and serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Freezing the breaded sticks before frying prevents the cheese from melting and leaking out during frying.
- Adjust the cayenne and hot sauce quantities based on your preferred spice level.
- Use whole milk mozzarella for the best texture and meltability.
- Serve immediately after glazing for optimal crispiness and flavor.
- Avocado oil is recommended for frying due to its high smoke point, but other neutral oils with high smoke points can be substituted.
Keywords: Nashville hot mozzarella sticks, spicy mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, crispy mozzarella appetizer, Nashville hot snack