Restaurant-Style Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks at Home

Step-by-step instructions

1. Prepare your breading station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, add the flour. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, mix the breadcrumbs with cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

2. Coat the mozzarella sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick first in the flour, then in the eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Place each one on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while frying.

3. Make the hot sauce mixture: In a small saucepan, melt the butter and hot sauce together over low heat. Once melted, set aside to cool slightly.

4. Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F.

5. Fry the mozzarella sticks: Carefully add the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches to the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

6. Brush with sauce: Once all the mozzarella sticks are fried, use a pastry brush to coat them with the hot sauce mixture.

7. Serve immediately: Plate the Nashville hot mozzarella sticks and serve with your favorite dip, like ranch or blue cheese dressing, for a completely satisfying experience.

Best ways to enjoy it

The beauty of Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks lies not only in their bold flavors but also in their versatility. Serve them as an appetizer at your next gathering, or pair them with a fresh salad for a more substantial meal. For a fun twist, offer various dipping sauces such as honey mustard, spicy aioli, or even guacamole. The combination of flavors will delight everyone at the table!

Keeping leftovers fresh

To store leftover mozzarella sticks, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them after frying; just ensure they are in a single layer on a baking sheet to prevent sticking, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 400°F until heated through and crispy—about 10-15 minutes should do the trick. Always remember to handle food safely!

Helpful cooking tips

• Freezing is essential: Don’t skip the freezing step! It helps the mozzarella sticks firm up, ensuring that the cheese doesn’t leak out during frying.
• Oil temperature is key: Use a thermometer to keep the oil at 350°F for optimal frying. If it’s too hot, they may burn; too cool, and they’ll become greasy.
• Customize your spice level: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the breadcrumb mix based on your preference for heat.

Creative twists

Want to switch things up? Try adding other spices to your breadcrumb mix for a unique flavor—think Italian seasoning or lemon zest. For a cheesy surprise, consider using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or smoked mozzarella. Or, for a sweet twist, drizzle your fried sticks with honey or sriracha before serving!

FAQ

How long does it take to make these mozzarella sticks?

From start to finish, you can expect the process to take about an hour, including freezing time.

Can I make these in advance?

Yes! You can prepare them and freeze them before frying. Just add a few extra minutes when frying from frozen.

Are there any gluten-free options?

Absolutely! Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free varieties and use gluten-free flour for the coating.

With these Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your culinary skills. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy an authentic restaurant-style snack right from the comfort of your home!

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Gooey, crispy mozzarella sticks with a spicy Nashville twist, perfect for any gathering!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Appetizer, Snack

Cuisine: American, Southern

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For Breading

• 1 package package of mozzarella sticks
• 1 cup all-purpose flour Can substitute with gluten-free flour
• 2 large eggs Beaten
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs Can use gluten-free breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust for spice level
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For Frying

• 1/2 cup hot sauce
• 1/4 cup butter
• Vegetable oil for frying Vegetable oil for frying

Method

 

Preparation

1. Prepare your breading station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first, add the flour. In the second, beat the eggs. In the third, mix the breadcrumbs with cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Coat the mozzarella sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick first in the flour, then in the eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture. Place each one on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes.
3. Make the hot sauce mixture: In a small saucepan, melt the butter and hot sauce together over low heat. Once melted, set aside to cool slightly.
4. Heat the oil: In a deep fryer or large pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F.

Cooking

1. Fry the mozzarella sticks: Carefully add the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches to the hot oil. Fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. Brush with sauce: Once all the mozzarella sticks are fried, use a pastry brush to coat them with the hot sauce mixture.
3. Serve immediately: Plate the Nashville hot mozzarella sticks and serve with your favorite dip, like ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Notes

Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them after frying. Reheat by baking from frozen at 400°F for 10-15 minutes.