Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy, crispy twist on a classic favorite. With a perfectly crunchy coating and gooey cheese pull, these mozzarella sticks are elevated by a bold, flavorful Nashville hot oil.
Ingredients
- 1 block mozzarella cheese (cut into 1/4 inch rectangles)
- 1 cup all purpose flour
- 3 eggs
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup hot oil (that you used to fry, this will be for the Nashville hot oil)
- 3 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika powder
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Method
- Cut your block of mozzarella cheese into 1/4-inch rectangles to form the sticks.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of cayenne pepper, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, and 1 tablespoon of onion powder. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 eggs. In a third bowl, mix the panko bread crumbs, 1 tablespoon of oregano, and 1 tablespoon of onion powder.
- Coat each mozzarella stick first in the flour mixture, then dip it into the whisked eggs, and finally coat it in the panko bread crumb mixture. Repeat the egg and bread crumb coating process for each mozzarella stick to double coat them for extra crispiness.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a tray and freeze them for at least 1 hour to help them hold their shape when frying.
- Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) and fry the frozen mozzarella sticks in batches, turning occasionally, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides. Set them on paper towels to drain the excess oil.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of hot oil (from frying), 3 tablespoons of cayenne pepper, 1 tablespoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to create your Nashville hot oil.
- Toss the fried mozzarella sticks in the prepared Nashville hot oil, or drizzle the oil over the sticks for a spicy kick, depending on your preference.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey, crispy, and spicy mozzarella sticks!
Why You’ll Love These Mozzarella Sticks
- Extra crispy and crunchy: Double breading ensures that each mozzarella stick has a super crispy coating, giving you that satisfying crunch in every bite.
- Gooey cheese pull: With perfectly fried mozzarella, you’ll get that ultimate cheese pull moment when you break into one.
- Spicy kick: The Nashville hot oil adds an intense, bold flavor, making these mozzarella sticks a fun twist on the classic version.
- Customizable: The hot oil is optional! Even without it, these mozzarella sticks will be some of the best you’ve ever had, delivering cheesy goodness with or without the spice.
Optional Hot Oil
For those who enjoy a spicy kick, the Nashville hot oil brings the heat and adds an extra layer of flavor. However, if you prefer a more classic mozzarella stick or want a milder option, you can skip the oil. The double breading and perfectly melted mozzarella will still give you the best cheese pull and crunchy texture, ensuring they’re just as delicious on their own!
