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- 12 mozzarella sticks - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 2 large eggs - 1 cup buttermilk - 2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko works exceptionally well) - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your heat preference) - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ¼ cup hot chili oil (store-bought or homemade Nashville hot oil) - Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) Hot chili oil is a key part of this dish. It gives the mozzarella sticks their signature Nashville heat. You can buy it or make your own. Making it at home is easy! Just heat oil with spices until fragrant. Smoked paprika adds a deep flavor. It makes the sticks taste rich and smoky. Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular ones. They help create a crunchy texture, which is what we want! You can swap all-purpose flour with almond flour for a gluten-free option. If you don't have buttermilk, mix milk with a bit of vinegar. This will give you a similar taste. For mozzarella, feel free to use string cheese. It melts well and holds its shape. If you want less heat, cut back on cayenne pepper. You can also use a milder oil if you prefer less spice. {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by freezing the cheese. Place 12 mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 2 hours. This step is key to keeping the sticks firm during frying. If you skip this, they may melt too quickly. While the mozzarella sticks freeze, set up your breading station. - In the first bowl, add 1 cup all-purpose flour. - In the second bowl, whisk 2 large eggs with 1 cup buttermilk until smooth. - In the third bowl, mix 2 cups breadcrumbs, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Make sure the spices blend well. Now, take the frozen mozzarella sticks out. Coat each stick in flour first, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture. Let any extra drip back into the bowl. Finally, roll it in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Press gently to coat evenly. After breading all the sticks, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them again for another 30 minutes. This helps the coating stick better while frying. Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep frying pan or fryer. Carefully add the breaded sticks in small batches, about 2-3 at a time. Fry them until golden brown, which takes about 1-2 minutes. Once they are done, use a slotted spoon to move them to a plate lined with paper towels. This will soak up any extra oil. Next, drizzle ¼ cup hot chili oil over the sticks to give them that Nashville heat. Serve them hot and enjoy! Frying mozzarella sticks takes care and skill. First, always freeze the sticks for at least two hours. This keeps the cheese from melting too fast. When you fry, use hot oil at 350°F (175°C). This high heat helps get that golden color and crunchy texture. To keep your mozzarella sticks crispy, drain them well after frying. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them onto paper towels. This step removes excess oil. Serve them right away to enjoy their crunch. If you let them sit too long, they may get soggy. Want to change the heat? You can easily adjust the spice in your sticks. If you like it mild, use less cayenne pepper. For more heat, add extra chili oil when serving. Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect balance! Pro Tips Freeze for Best Results: Freezing the mozzarella sticks not only helps them maintain their shape while frying, but also results in a gooey, melty center that contrasts beautifully with the crispy coating. Adjust the Heat: The level of cayenne pepper can be adjusted based on your heat preference. Start with less if you're unsure, and you can always add more hot chili oil for that Nashville spice! Panko Breadcrumbs: Using Panko breadcrumbs will give your mozzarella sticks an extra crunchy texture. Don’t skip this step for that ideal crispy bite! Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve the mozzarella sticks hot out of the fryer. They are at their crispiest and most flavorful right after cooking! {{image_4}} You can switch up the cheese for these sticks. Cheddar adds a sharp taste. Pepper jack brings heat and flavor. For a creamy twist, try gouda. Each cheese melts differently, so choose what you like best. To make Nashville hot sauce, mix hot chili oil with seasonings. Start with cayenne pepper and smoked paprika. Add garlic powder and a bit of sugar for sweetness. Adjust the heat by adding more or less cayenne. This sauce packs a punch and enhances the sticks. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based mozzarella. Many brands offer great melting cheese. If you want a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water. Use non-dairy milk for the buttermilk. These swaps keep the flavor while meeting dietary needs. To store leftover mozzarella sticks, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for about 3 days in the fridge. Avoid stacking them to keep the coating crispy. To reheat, use an oven or an air fryer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes until hot and crispy. If using an air fryer, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. This method keeps their crunch. You can freeze uncooked mozzarella sticks for later use. After breading, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They will last for up to 3 months. Fry them straight from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy. Yes, you can prepare these sticks ahead. After breading, place them on a tray. Freeze them for up to a month. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer. This keeps them fresh and tasty. The best oil for frying is one with a high smoke point. Peanut oil and canola oil work well. They heat up nicely and give a crisp texture. You can also use vegetable oil if it's what you have on hand. Yes, you can bake them! Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Arrange the sticks on a baking sheet. Spray them lightly with oil. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden. They may not be as crispy as fried, but they will still taste great. You’ve learned about Nashville hot mozzarella sticks, from ingredients to storage. By using the right cheese and spices, you can create tasty, crispy treats. Remember, the key to great frying is temperature and technique. Don’t hesitate to try variations, like vegan options or homemade sauces. Store leftovers properly to enjoy later. With practice, you’ll master this dish and impress your friends or family. Enjoy the deliciousness you create!

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy mozzarella sticks with a spicy Nashville twist, perfect for snacking.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 pieces mozzarella sticks
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 2 cups breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.25 cup hot chili oil
  • to taste optional fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Begin by placing the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 2 hours.
  • In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing well.
  • Once the mozzarella sticks have frozen, coat each stick in flour, dip it into the egg mixture, and roll it in the seasoned breadcrumbs.
  • Arrange the breaded mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for an additional 30 minutes.
  • Heat oil in a deep frying pan or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C).
  • Add the breaded mozzarella sticks to the hot oil in batches and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Transfer the fried mozzarella sticks to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
  • Drizzle the hot chili oil generously over the fried mozzarella sticks.
  • Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Keyword appetizer, mozzarella sticks, Nashville hot, snack