Description
A fiery twist on classic mozzarella sticks, this recipe infuses the bold, spicy flavors of Nashville hot seasoning into a crispy, cheesy appetizer. Perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you crave a spicy kick!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons hot sauce
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1 quart vegetable oil (for frying)
For the Nashville Hot Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating Stations – Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with hot sauce, and one with a mixture of panko, seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks – Dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for an extra crispy coating. Place on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour.
- Heat the Oil – In a deep pot, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). Make sure the oil is hot enough to ensure crispiness and prevent the cheese from leaking out.
- Fry the Mozzarella Sticks – Fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Prepare the Nashville Hot Sauce – In a bowl, whisk together melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and honey.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks – Brush or toss the fried mozzarella sticks in the Nashville hot sauce for a bold, spicy kick.
- Serve and Enjoy – Serve hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing and enjoy the perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and spicy flavors!
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper in both the breading and sauce.
- Freezing the mozzarella sticks is essential to prevent them from melting too quickly during frying.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 mozzarella sticks
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg