Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Snack


  • Author: Maria
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 16 mozzarella sticks 1x

Description

Enjoy crispy, gooey homemade mozzarella sticks, perfectly seasoned and fried to golden perfection. Drizzled with a spicy buttermilk hot sauce, they are an irresistible snack or appetizer!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound of mozzarella cheese sticks
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/4 cup hot sauce (like Frank’s RedHot or your favorite brand)
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cut the mozzarella cheese sticks in half to create bite-sized pieces.
  2. Place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
  3. In a shallow bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
  5. In a third bowl, add the breadcrumbs.
  6. Remove the frozen mozzarella sticks from the freezer.
  7. Dip each stick into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coat, and shake off excess flour.
  8. Next, dip the floured stick into the beaten eggs, coating it fully.
  9. Roll the stick in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere. Repeat for all sticks.
  10. For extra crunch, double-dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
  11. In a small bowl, combine the buttermilk and hot sauce, stirring until well mixed. Adjust hot sauce to taste.
  12. In a large skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
  13. Carefully add a few mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding.
  14. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  15. Drizzle the hot sauce mixture over the fried mozzarella sticks and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure the cheese sticks are well-frozen before frying to prevent them from melting too quickly.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper in the breading and hot sauce mixture according to your spice preference.
  • For a healthier option, consider baking the mozzarella sticks instead of frying.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes