Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are crispy, golden-fried cheese sticks coated in a spicy, flavorful Nashville hot seasoning. Perfect as a bold appetizer or snack, these mozzarella sticks combine the creamy, gooey cheese inside with a fiery crust seasoned with paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 mozzarella sticks 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese and Coating
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Spicy Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Frying
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola oil), about 4 cups
Instructions
- Prepare the Cheese Sticks: Pat the mozzarella sticks dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture which helps the coating stick better.
- Set Up Breading Station: Place the flour in one shallow dish; beat the eggs in a second dish; and combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and panko in a third dish.
- Bread the Sticks: Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, tapping off excess, then dip in beaten eggs, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture ensuring even coverage.
- Freeze the Breaded Sticks: Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent melting during frying.
- Prepare the Nashville Hot Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Fry the Cheese Sticks: Heat the oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Coat with Hot Seasoning: While still hot, brush or toss the fried mozzarella sticks with the prepared Nashville hot seasoning to coat evenly.
- Serve: Serve immediately for a crispy, spicy snack, optionally with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce.
Notes
- Freezing the breaded sticks before frying is essential to keep the cheese from melting out.
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or adjust seasoning to taste.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature for even, crispy frying.
- For an extra crispy coating, double dip with egg and breadcrumbs before freezing.
- Leftovers can be reheated in a hot oven to regain crispiness but are best served fresh.
Keywords: Nashville hot mozzarella sticks, spicy cheese sticks, fried mozzarella, appetizer, snack, Nashville hot seasoning
