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Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks for a Spicy Snack Attack

Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy twist on the classic treat, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Freezing Time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 sticks
Course: Snacks
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Coating
  • 1 lb Whole Milk Mozzarella Cheese Opt for fresh mozzarella for a creamy, melty center.
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour This forms the base layer for the coating to stick.
  • 2 Eggs (whisked) Acts as a binder for the coating ingredients.
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Provides a light and crispy texture; can swap with regular breadcrumbs if needed.
  • 1 cup Plain Breadcrumbs Adds depth to the crust; may be replaced with more panko if desired.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Cayenne Pepper Gives your sticks that Nashville hot flavor; adjust to suit your spice level.
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika Introduces a rich, smoky flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Garlic Powder Boosts flavor remarkably.
  • 1 tbsp Onion Powder Adds a mild sweetness and onion flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
  • 1 tsp Pepper Essential for enhancing the overall flavor.
For Frying and the Glaze
  • 2 cups Avocado Oil Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point.
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter Used to create the zesty hot glaze when melted.
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar Balances out the heat of the glaze.
  • 2 tbsp Hot Sauce Adds an extra layer of spice to the glaze.

Equipment

  • Heavy pot
  • Shallow bowls
  • Slotted Spoon
  • wire rack
  • saucepan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare mozzarella by cutting 1 lb of whole milk mozzarella cheese into sticks, approximately 3 inches long and ½ inch thick.
  2. Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with whisked eggs, and one with panko and plain breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, and seasonings.
  3. Bread the sticks by coating each in flour, dipping in whisked eggs, and then rolling in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
  4. Freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks on a tray for 20 to 25 minutes.
  5. Fry in a heavy pot with 2 inches of avocado oil at 375°F for 1 to 2 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Make the glaze by melting ½ cup of unsalted butter and whisking in cayenne, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, hot sauce, and salt until smooth.
  7. Serve the sticks immediately tossed in the spicy glaze.

Nutrition

Serving: 4sticksCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 12gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 250mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Freezing is key to ensure the cheese doesn't melt too quickly when frying. Adjust spice levels in the glaze to suit your taste.

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