Description
Get ready to turn up the heat with these Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks—a fiery twist on a cheesy favorite! Crispy, golden breading encases gooey mozzarella sticks, all tossed in a bold, spicy Nashville-style oil that packs flavor and a kick. They’re the perfect appetizer for game day, parties, or when your snack craving demands something spicy and melty.
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Ingredients
For the Mozzarella Sticks:
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12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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2 tbsp milk
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2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs or panko
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Vegetable oil for frying
For the Nashville Hot Oil:
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¼ cup vegetable oil (or use oil from the fryer)
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1 tbsp cayenne pepper
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1 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp onion powder
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¼ tsp chili powder
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¼ tsp salt
Instructions
Step 1: Freeze the Cheese Sticks
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Unwrap mozzarella sticks and place them on a parchment-lined tray.
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Freeze for at least 1 hour (prevents cheese from leaking during frying).
Step 2: Bread the Sticks
3. Set up a breading station:
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Bowl 1: Flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Bowl 2: Beaten eggs with milk.
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Bowl 3: Breadcrumbs.
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Dip each frozen stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
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Repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for a double coating.
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Return to freezer for 15–20 minutes to firm up again.
Step 3: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
7. Heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C).
8. Fry sticks in small batches for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown.
9. Transfer to a wire rack or paper towel–lined plate to drain.
Step 4: Make the Nashville Hot Oil
10. In a small saucepan, heat ¼ cup vegetable oil until hot but not smoking.
11. Remove from heat and whisk in cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and salt.
12. Taste and adjust spice level if needed.
Step 5: Toss & Serve
13. Brush or drizzle the hot oil over the fried mozzarella sticks while still hot.
14. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dipping sauce.
Notes
Double Dip – That extra layer of breading gives unbeatable crunch.
Freeze First – Essential to avoid melty disasters while frying.
Don’t Overcrowd – Fry in small batches to keep oil temperature steady.
Use a Thermometer – For consistent frying results.
Try Panko – For even more crunch than traditional breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus freezing time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Cuisine: American – Spicy Comfort Food