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Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks - featured image

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

  • Author: Savannah Collins
  • Total Time: 28 minutes
  • Yield: 12 sticks (about 6 servings) 1x

Description

These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy, crunchy twist on the classic party snack, featuring gooey cheese, a double-breaded coating, and a fiery Nashville hot oil drizzle. Perfect for game day, gatherings, or anytime you crave bold comfort food.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (about 12 oz)
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup fine cornmeal
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano (optional)
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce (your favorite brand)
  • Vegetable oil for frying (at least 1.5 quarts)
  • Nashville hot oil drizzle:
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp brown sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Unwrap all mozzarella sticks and pat dry with paper towels. For crispier results, freeze sticks for 30 minutes.
  2. Set up dredging station: In one bowl, combine flour, salt, black pepper, cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. In a second bowl, whisk eggs with hot sauce. In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal.
  3. Coat each mozzarella stick in seasoned flour (shake off excess), dip in egg mixture, then roll in panko/cornmeal blend. For extra crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb steps for double breading.
  4. Place breaded sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
  5. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (180°C).
  6. Fry 4-5 sticks at a time for 1–2 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crisp. Remove with slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
  7. Make Nashville hot oil: In a small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in cayenne, paprika, brown sugar, salt, and hot sauce. Warm gently until combined.
  8. Drizzle or brush hot oil over fried mozzarella sticks while hot. Serve immediately.

Notes

Double-breading and freezing before frying are key for maximum crunch and minimal cheese leakage. Adjust cayenne for desired spice level. For gluten-free, use GF flour and breadcrumbs. Can be baked or air fried for a lighter version.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Cuisine: American (Southern)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 sticks
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 1
  • Sodium: 420
  • Fat: 13
  • Saturated Fat: 6
  • Carbohydrates: 18
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 8

Keywords: Nashville hot, mozzarella sticks, spicy appetizer, party snack, fried cheese, Southern recipe, game day, comfort food

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Find it online: https://falvory.com/nashville-hot-mozzarella-sticks-recipe-easy-spicy-snack-for-parties/