Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy twist on a classic appetizer, featuring crispy fried mozzarella coated with a flavorful blend of paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder. Perfect as a bold snack or party appetizer, these sticks deliver a satisfying crunch with a molten cheesy center, all enhanced by a fiery Nashville hot seasoning.
- 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
- 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
Breading
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Spices
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Oil
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 4 cups)
Instructions
- Prepare the breading station: In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour in the first, beat the eggs in the second, and mix the seasoned breadcrumbs with panko, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
- Bread the mozzarella sticks: Coat each mozzarella stick first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally roll thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Freeze the breaded sticks: Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent cheese leakage during frying.
- Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use enough oil to fully submerge the sticks.
- Fry the mozzarella sticks: Carefully fry the frozen sticks in batches for 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
- Drain and toss in Nashville hot seasoning: Remove the sticks with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. While still hot, brush or toss the sticks lightly with additional melted butter mixed with cayenne and paprika for the authentic Nashville hot flavor.
- Serve immediately: Serve the spicy, crispy mozzarella sticks hot with your choice of dipping sauce such as ranch or blue cheese dressing.
Notes
- Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks is crucial to prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper quantity according to your preferred spice level.
- Use a thermometer to maintain the frying oil temperature for even cooking and crispiness.
- Leftover Nashville hot seasoning can be stored in an airtight container for future use.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
Keywords: Nashville hot mozzarella sticks, spicy mozzarella sticks, fried cheese sticks, appetizer recipe, southern spicy cheese sticks
