Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Gather these ingredients to create the perfect Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks:

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 ½ cups seasoned panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Oil for frying

Nashville Hot Coating

To create the spicy coating that gives these mozzarella sticks their signature flavor, you will need:

• ½ cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

• Step 1: Prep the Cheese
• Place mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 1 hour.
• Step 2: Breading Process
• Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, and one with panko, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne.
• Coat each cheese stick in flour, then dip in the egg mixture, and coat with seasoned panko. Repeat for extra crispiness.
• Freeze again for 30 minutes to prevent melting while frying.
• Step 3: Fry to Perfection
• Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
• Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
• Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Coating
• In a bowl, whisk melted butter, cayenne, brown sugar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, and salt.
• Brush or toss the fried mozzarella sticks in the spicy mixture.

FAQs

• Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko? Yes, but panko provides a lighter and crispier texture.
• How spicy are these mozzarella sticks? The cayenne pepper adds a significant amount of heat; you can adjust the quantity to your liking.
• Can I bake these mozzarella sticks instead of frying? Yes, baking is an alternative; however, the texture may differ slightly from frying.
• Can I prepare these mozzarella sticks in advance? Yes, you can bread them ahead of time and freeze them until you are ready to fry.
• What can I serve with Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks? They pair beautifully with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Conclusion

These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are quick to prepare and deliver an explosion of flavor that is sure to impress your friends and family. Whether you’re gearing up for a game night or looking for a tasty snack, these crispy, cheesy delights are guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy them fresh from the fryer for an irresistible treat!