Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

As a passionate home cook and a mom of three spirited kids, I’ve always believed that food is more than just nourishment, it’s a way to bring the family together. Growing up, my love for cooking came from watching my mom and grandma create delicious meals in the kitchen. One of our family’s favorites is Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks. This recipe is a fun twist on traditional mozzarella sticks, adding a spicy kick that kids and adults alike can’t resist. Originating from Nashville’s famous hot chicken, this dish takes the essence of Southern comfort food and melds it with gooey cheese. It’s special not only because of its flavor but also because it brings smiles during family gatherings. Let’s dive into making these scrumptious sticks that my husband can’t get enough of!

Why You’ll Love Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are perfectly crispy, cheesy, and spicy! When you bite into them, you’ll experience a delightful crunch followed by melty mozzarella and a kick of heat. They are easy to prepare, making them a great choice for busy parents like me. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party or treating the family to a fun snack, these sticks are sure to be a hit. Plus, they pair perfectly with ranch or marinara sauce for dipping, offering a satisfying balance of flavors.

Ingredients for Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

For the mozzarella sticks:

• 10 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons Nashville hot seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

For the coating:

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For frying:

• Vegetable oil (for frying)

For serving:

• Ranch blue cheese or marinara sauce

How to Make Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

1. Freeze the cheese sticks for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
2. Prepare the breading: In one bowl, mix the flour with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs and Nashville hot seasoning.
3. Coat the mozzarella sticks: Roll each stick in the flour, dip in the egg mixture, and then coat in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Repeat for a double coating to make them extra crispy.
4. Cook: For deep frying, heat vegetable oil to 350°F and fry the sticks for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 375°F and air fry for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
5. Make the Nashville hot butter coating: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, and paprika.
6. Coat the hot mozzarella sticks with the spicy butter mixture for that extra kick.
7. Serve hot with ranch blue cheese or marinara sauce for dipping.

Pro Tips for Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

1. Freeze the cheese sticks long enough to prevent them from melting too quickly while frying.
2. Double-coating the cheese sticks in breadcrumbs ensures a thicker, crunchier texture.
3. Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature for frying, preventing sogginess.
4. Experiment with more or less cayenne pepper based on your family’s spice tolerance.

Cooking Notes

• Make sure the mozzarella sticks are well-coated to avoid any cheese leakage during cooking.

Serving Suggestions

1. Serve with ranch dressing for a cooling effect against the heat.
2. Pair with marinara sauce for a complementary flavor.
3. Present them on a platter for parties to impress guests.
4. Enjoy as a side dish with burgers or fried chicken.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Calories per Serving: ~350 kcal
• Servings: 4
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Protein: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 1g

Storage & Leftovers

• Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh; however, store any leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze un-fried, breaded sticks for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen when ready.
• Reheating: Reheat in an oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes! Cheddar or pepper jack can also work well.
2. What is Nashville hot seasoning? It’s a blend of spices that gives the dish its signature spicy flavor.
3. Can I make these in advance? You can prepare and bread the sticks ahead of time and freeze them until you’re ready to fry.
4. How can I make them less spicy? Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and use less hot seasoning.
5. What can I serve these with? They pair well with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or even a cool yogurt dip.

More Delicious Recipes

• Philly Cheesesteak Sliders Recipe: Easy, Delicious & Perfect for Any Occasion
• Cajun Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Spicy Twist on Classic Comfort Food

Conclusion

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks embody a perfect mixture of comfort, flavor, and joy in every bite. They are not just a delicious snack; they are a reason for family bonding over great food. Making these sticks reminds me of those joyous times spent in the kitchen with my mom and grandma, learning the secrets to whipping up irresistible dishes. I truly enjoy sharing these treats with my family, especially my husband, who often requests them for special occasions. So, whether you are preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting a lively gathering, these hot mozzarella sticks will surely be the star of the show. Enjoy every crispy bite and the delightful smiles they bring!

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