Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy and cheesy snack that combines the classic flavors of Nashville hot chicken with gooey mozzarella cheese.
Author:Lorenzo Bonucci
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:1 hour 25 minutes
Yield:Serves 4
Category:Appetizer
Method:Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
12 ounces mozzarella cheese sticks
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetable oil (for frying)
1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
Cut each mozzarella stick in half to create shorter pieces. Freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 1 hour to firm them up.
Set up a breading station: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
Remove the mozzarella sticks from the freezer. Dip each stick first in the flour, shaking off excess, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat this process for all sticks.
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
Carefully add the breaded mozzarella sticks to the hot oil in batches, frying for about 1-2 minutes or until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
In a small bowl, mix the hot sauce and melted butter together. Drizzle or toss the fried mozzarella sticks in the hot sauce mixture before serving.
Notes
For a cheesy twist, try adding a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
Serve with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping to balance the heat.