Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
Delicious mozzarella sticks coated with a spicy blend and fried to perfection, offering a gooey, cheesy experience with a fiery kick.
Ingredients
Cheese and Coating Ingredients
- 12 pieces Mozzarella cheese sticks Look for high-quality cheese for that perfect stretch.
- 1 cup All-purpose flour This helps create a crispy exterior.
- 2 large Eggs This acts as a binding agent.
- 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs For that extra crunch.
Seasoning Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Cayenne pepper The star of the Nashville hot experience.
- 1 teaspoon Paprika Adds color and a slight smoky flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder Depth of flavor is key!
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder A touch of sweetness.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.
- Vegetable oil For frying. Ensure that perfect golden brown finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Begin by setting up your workstation with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour mixed with salt and pepper.
- In the second bowl, whisk the eggs.
- In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, cayenne, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Dredging the Sticks
- Take each mozzarella stick and first coat it in the flour mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Then dip them into the eggs, followed by the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
- This three-step coating process is crucial for that crispy exterior. For an extra crunch, double-dip the sticks back in the egg and panko.
Frying
- In a deep pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the coated mozzarella sticks into the oil, frying in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until they’re golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on paper towels.
Creating the Spicy Sauce
- While the sticks cool slightly, mix any leftover hot seasonings with a splash of melted butter for a dipping sauce.
- This sauce will amp up the heat!
Notes
For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist. Serve with a side of ranch dip or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat.