Crispy Spicy Nashville Sticks

This crispy, molten mozzarella stick recipe delivers an irresistible Nashville hot twist that transforms an everyday appetizer into something extraordinary. The combination of golden-fried exterior, gooey cheese center, and spicy glaze creates the perfect balance of heat, richness and texture that will leave everyone reaching for more.

I created this recipe for a game day party last fall and they disappeared faster than any other dish on the table. Friends were actually fighting over the last few sticks even though I had made a double batch.

Ingredients

• Whole milk mozzarella block: Using a block allows you to cut thicker sticks that deliver maximum cheese pull. Look for whole milk varieties which melt better than part skim options.
• All purpose flour: Creates the first layer of the breading that helps the egg wash adhere perfectly to the cheese.
• Large eggs: They create the binding layer that makes everything stick together. Use fresh eggs at room temperature for the best adhesion.
• Panko and plain breadcrumbs: This combination gives you the perfect balance of crunch and coating coverage. The panko provides exceptional crispiness while regular breadcrumbs fill any gaps.
• Cayenne pepper: The signature heat source in Nashville hot preparations. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference but don't skip it completely.
• Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness that balances the heat and gives the coating that distinctive red hue.
• Avocado oil: Its high smoke point makes it ideal for frying at higher temperatures without burning.
• Unsalted butter: Forms the base of the Nashville hot glaze allowing you to control salt levels separately.
• Brown sugar: Balances the heat with subtle sweetness and helps the glaze caramelize slightly on the exterior.
• Hot sauce: Adds tanginess and additional layers of heat. Choose your favorite variety based on desired flavor profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Cheese:

Cut the mozzarella block into thick rectangular sticks approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick. Precision matters here. If too thin they'll melt too quickly when frying. If too thick the cheese won't get properly gooey by the time the coating browns.

Create the Breading Station:

Set up three separate bowls in sequence. First bowl with flour seasoned lightly with salt and pepper. Second bowl with eggs thoroughly whisked until completely smooth. Third bowl with both breadcrumbs thoroughly mixed with all seasonings. Make sure each component is in a bowl wide enough to easily dip and maneuver the cheese sticks.

Double Coat the Cheese:

Take each mozzarella stick and fully coat in flour ensuring no damp spots remain. Tap off excess. Next dip completely in egg wash allowing excess to drip off. Then thoroughly coat in seasoned breadcrumb mixture pressing gently to adhere. Return to egg wash for a second coating ensuring complete coverage. Finally coat again in breadcrumbs pressing firmly to create a solid shell. Place on a parchment lined baking sheet.

Freeze for Setting:

Place the breaded mozzarella sticks in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes. This crucial step solidifies the cheese slightly and ensures the coating sets properly before frying. Dont skip this step or you'll risk cheese leakage during cooking.

Fry to Perfection:

Heat avocado oil to exactly 375°F using a thermometer for accuracy. Maintain this temperature throughout cooking. Fry sticks in small batches of 3 to 4 for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown on all sides. Watch carefully as they can go from perfect to burnt quickly. Remove with a slotted spoon to a wire cooling rack positioned over paper towels. This allows excess oil to drain while maintaining crispiness.

Create Nashville Hot Glaze:

In a small saucepan over medium low heat melt butter completely. Add all spices brown sugar and hot sauce whisking continuously until fully incorporated and smooth. The mixture should be vibrant red and have a silky consistency. Keep warm until ready to use but don't allow to separate.

Glaze and Serve:

Using tongs or a fork dip each fried mozzarella stick into the hot glaze ensuring even coverage on all sides. Let excess drip off before placing on serving plate. Serve immediately while cheese is still hot and stretchy with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.

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The first time I made these I accidentally doubled the cayenne in both the coating and the glaze. While they were intensely spicy everyone still devoured them requesting the same recipe again. That taught me that good cheese can stand up to serious heat levels better than almost any other food.

Make Ahead Tips

You can freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for up to one month before frying. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to serve fry directly from frozen adding about 30 seconds to the cooking time.

Customization Options

For a milder version reduce the cayenne to ½ teaspoon in both the coating and glaze. The smoked paprika will still provide plenty of flavor without overwhelming heat.

Serving Suggestions

Balance the heat with cooling dips beyond the standard ranch or blue cheese. Try a honey yogurt sauce or avocado crema for interesting contrast.

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These Nashville hot mozzarella sticks represent the perfect fusion of Italian comfort food and bold Southern flavors. The contrast between the cooling creamy cheese interior and the spicy crisp exterior creates a truly addictive appetizer experience that will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep mozzarella sticks from leaking cheese while frying?

Ensure the mozzarella sticks are double coated with breadcrumbs and frozen for at least 15-20 minutes before frying. This creates a firm barrier to keep the cheese contained during frying.

→ What’s the best way to achieve a crispy coating?

Using a combination of panko and plain breadcrumbs adds extra texture and crispiness. Double coating the mozzarella sticks also enhances the crunch.

→ Can I adjust the spice level of the glaze?

Yes, you can adjust the cayenne pepper and hot sauce to match your preferred spice level. Reduce or omit cayenne for less heat or add more for an extra kick.

→ What kind of oil is best for frying mozzarella sticks?

Avocado oil is preferred because of its high smoke point, but you can also use vegetable or canola oil as alternatives.

→ How should I serve Nashville mozzarella sticks?

Serve them immediately after dipping in the hot glaze for the best texture and flavor. Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing as a cooling dip.

→ Can I make these mozzarella sticks ahead of time?

You can bread and freeze the mozzarella sticks ahead of time. Keep them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month and fry when ready to serve.