Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella (Print Format)
Bold, spicy mozzarella coated in a crunchy crust and glazed with fiery Nashville hot butter, perfect for sharing.
# Ingredients:
→ Mozzarella Sticks
01 -
1 lb block of whole milk mozzarella cheese, sliced into thick sticks
02 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
03 -
3 large eggs, whisked
04 -
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 -
1 cup plain breadcrumbs
06 -
1 tsp cayenne pepper
07 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
08 -
½ tsp garlic powder
09 -
½ tsp onion powder
10 -
Salt and pepper, to taste
11 -
Avocado oil, for frying
→ Nashville Hot Glaze
12 -
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
13 -
2 tbsp cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
14 -
2 tbsp brown sugar
15 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
16 -
½ tsp garlic powder
17 -
½ tsp chili powder (optional)
18 -
2-3 tbsp hot sauce
19 -
Salt, to taste
# Steps:
01 -
Slice the mozzarella cheese into thick, rectangular sticks approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick.
02 -
Prepare three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with a breadcrumb mixture combining panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper.
03 -
Coat each mozzarella stick in flour, followed by egg, and then the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a double coating. Place the breaded sticks on a tray.
04 -
Freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
05 -
Heat 2 inches of avocado oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C). Fry mozzarella sticks in small batches for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack.
06 -
In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in cayenne pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder (if using), hot sauce, and salt until smooth.
07 -
Dip the fried mozzarella sticks into the hot glaze, ensuring an even coat. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
# Tips:
01 -
Freezing the breaded mozzarella sticks helps them hold their shape during frying and prevents the cheese from leaking out.
02 -
For a spicier glaze, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.