Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks (Print Version)
Golden mozzarella sticks with Nashville-inspired spicy glaze and a perfectly crunchy coating.
# Ingredients:
→ Mozzarella Sticks
01 -
1 pound whole milk mozzarella cheese, sliced into thick sticks (approximately 3 inches by 1/2 inch)
02 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
03 -
3 large eggs, whisked
04 -
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 -
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
06 -
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
07 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
09 -
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
10 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
11 -
Avocado oil, for deep frying
→ Nashville Hot Glaze
12 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
13 -
2 tablespoons cayenne pepper, or to taste
14 -
2 tablespoons brown sugar
15 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
17 -
1/2 teaspoon chili powder, optional
18 -
2 to 3 tablespoons hot sauce
19 -
Salt, to taste
# Steps:
01 -
Cut the mozzarella cheese into sticks measuring approximately 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.
02 -
Arrange three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with whisked eggs, and the third combining panko, plain breadcrumbs, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
03 -
Dredge each mozzarella stick first in flour, then coat in egg, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs to double coat, then transfer to a baking tray.
04 -
Place the breaded mozzarella sticks on the tray and freeze for 15 to 20 minutes to set the coating.
05 -
Heat 2 inches of avocado oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C). Fry the cheese sticks in batches for 1 to 2 minutes, until golden brown and crisp. Remove with tongs and drain on a wire rack.
06 -
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, optional chili powder, hot sauce, and salt. Whisk until smooth and fully incorporated.
07 -
Toss or dip the hot, fried mozzarella sticks in the Nashville hot glaze. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
Ensure the cheese sticks are thoroughly frozen before frying to maintain their shape and avoid cheese leakage during cooking.