Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella (Printer-Friendly)
Crunchy mozzarella sticks glazed with spicy Nashville hot butter, ideal for bold, flavorful snacking.
# What You'll Need:
→ Cheese
01 -
1 block whole milk mozzarella cheese, approximately 8 ounces, sliced into 3-inch long by 1/2-inch thick sticks
→ Breading
02 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
03 -
2 large eggs, whisked
04 -
3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 -
3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
06 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
08 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
09 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
10 -
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
11 -
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
→ Frying
12 -
2 cups avocado oil, for deep frying
→ Nashville Hot Glaze
13 -
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
14 -
1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed
15 -
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
16 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
17 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
18 -
1/4 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
19 -
1 teaspoon hot sauce with vinegar base
20 -
1/4 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Slice the mozzarella block into sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick to ensure even melting and durability through frying.
02 -
Set up three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with combined panko, plain breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper.
03 -
Dredge each mozzarella stick first in flour, then dip into egg, and coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
04 -
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a tray in a single layer and freeze for 15 to 20 minutes until firm to prevent cheese from leaking while frying.
05 -
Heat avocado oil in a deep pot to 375°F (190°C), ensuring at least 2 inches of oil depth for proper frying.
06 -
Fry a few sticks at a time for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on a wire rack to maintain crispness.
07 -
In a small saucepan over low heat, melt butter. Whisk in brown sugar, cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder if using, hot sauce, and salt until smooth and fragrant.
08 -
Immediately dip each fried mozzarella stick into the hot glaze to coat thoroughly. Serve piping hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing to complement the heat.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
Chilling the breaded sticks prevents the cheese from melting out during frying and helps maintain a crunchy exterior.
02 -
Maintaining the oil temperature at 375°F is essential for even cooking and optimal crispiness.