Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella (Printer-Friendly)
Golden mozzarella sticks with a crunchy crust and bold Nashville hot glaze served warm with creamy dips.
# What You’ll Need:
→ Cheese
01 -
1 block whole milk mozzarella cheese, about 8 ounces, cut into sticks approximately 3 inches long and 0.5 inch thick
→ Breading
02 -
0.75 cup all-purpose flour, unbleached
03 -
2 large eggs, whisked
04 -
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 -
0.5 cup plain breadcrumbs
06 -
1 tsp cayenne pepper
07 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
08 -
0.5 tsp garlic powder
09 -
0.5 tsp onion powder
10 -
0.5 tsp salt
11 -
0.25 tsp freshly ground black pepper
→ Frying
12 -
About 4 cups avocado oil, for deep frying
→ Nashville Hot Glaze
13 -
4 tbsp unsalted butter
14 -
1 tsp cayenne pepper
15 -
1 tbsp brown sugar, packed
16 -
1 tsp smoked paprika
17 -
0.25 tsp garlic powder
18 -
0.5 tsp chili powder (optional)
19 -
1 tbsp hot sauce with vinegar note
20 -
0.25 tsp salt
# Steps to Follow:
01 -
Cut mozzarella block into sticks about 3 inches long and 0.5 inch thick to ensure even melting and sturdy coating.
02 -
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with combined panko, plain breadcrumbs, cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
03 -
Dredge each cheese stick first in flour, then dip into egg mixture, followed by breadcrumb blend. For added crunch, repeat egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
04 -
Place breaded sticks on a tray and freeze for 15 to 20 minutes until firm to prevent cheese from melting during frying.
05 -
Heat avocado oil in a deep pot to 375°F. Fry sticks in batches for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Drain on wire rack to maintain crunch.
06 -
Melt butter over low heat in a saucepan, then whisk in cayenne, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder (optional), hot sauce, and salt until smooth and fragrant.
07 -
Quickly dip fried mozzarella sticks into hot glaze, arrange on serving platter, and serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for cooling contrast.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Freezing the breaded sticks before frying prevents cheese from leaking and ensures a crisp crust.
02 -
Maintain oil temperature at 375°F for optimal texture and minimal oil absorption.
03 -
Adjust cayenne and hot sauce amounts to suit preferred spice level.