Name: Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (16 ounce) block mozzarella cheese; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon kosher salt, divided; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 teaspoons hot sauce; 1 1/3 cups seasoned breadcrumbs; 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs; 4 tablespoons paprika, divided; 2 cups vegetable oil for frying, or more as needed; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper; 1/4 cup brown sugar; ranch dressing for dipping

If you’re a fan of both mozzarella sticks and spicy food, then Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are the perfect combination for you. These crispy, cheesy snacks are not only easy to make but also pack a flavorful punch that will impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. In my kitchen, these hot mozzarella sticks have become a go-to appetizer for game nights, parties, or even just a fun snack for movie nights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

The perfect blend of gooey cheese and spicy flavors will leave your taste buds craving more.
With a quick prep time, these hot mozzarella sticks are great for last-minute gatherings or weeknight dinners.
These sticks are versatile and can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or even a side dish.

Ingredient Notes:

Mozzarella cheese: Use a block of mozzarella for the best melting and stretching.
Hot sauce: Adds a kick of heat, but feel free to adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Panko breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy coating, but regular breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute.
Ranch dressing: Perfect for dipping and balancing out the spiciness.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Cut the mozzarella cheese into sticks.
In a bowl, combine flour, salt, and pepper.
Dip the cheese sticks in the flour mixture, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumb mixture.
Fry the sticks until golden brown and crispy.
In a separate bowl, mix hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar.
Toss the fried sticks in the hot sauce mixture.
Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.

Helpful Tips:

Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to ensure a crispy exterior.
For a healthier alternative, bake the sticks in the oven instead of frying.
Store any leftover hot sauce mixture in the fridge for future use.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

For an extra kick of heat, add more cayenne pepper to the hot sauce mixture.
Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist on this recipe.

Serving Suggestions:

These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks pair perfectly with a side of coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

To store leftovers, place the cooled sticks in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to maintain their crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of a block of mozzarella?

While pre-shredded cheese can be used, a block of mozzarella will provide a better texture.

How spicy are these mozzarella sticks?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted by adding more or less cayenne pepper to the hot sauce mixture.

Can I make these sticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sticks up to the frying stage and refrigerate them until ready to fry.

Can I freeze these mozzarella sticks?

Yes, you can freeze the sticks before frying. Simply thaw and fry when ready to serve.

Conclusion:

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a delicious twist on a classic appetizer that is sure to be a hit at your next gathering. Try out this recipe and let the spicy, cheesy goodness speak for itself. Enjoy!