Description
These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a crispy, cheesy, and spicy twist on the classic appetizer. Inspired by Nashville’s famous hot chicken, these sticks bring a bold kick of heat wrapped in a crunchy, golden-brown coating. Perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a fun snack night!
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
- Prepare the breading: In one bowl, mix flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs and Nashville hot seasoning.
- 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.
- Cook:
- Deep fry: Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Air fry: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and air fry for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make the Nashville hot butter coating: In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Coat the mozzarella sticks with the spicy butter mixture for that extra heat.
- Serve hot with ranch, blue cheese, or marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Freeze the cheese sticks long enough to prevent melting too quickly while frying.
- Double-coating ensures a thicker, crunchier texture.
- Use a thermometer to check oil temperature to prevent sogginess.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper level based on spice preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying, Air Frying
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
Keywords: Nashville hot, mozzarella sticks, spicy cheese sticks, crispy snacks, Southern appetizer