Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s the perfect blend of comfort and heat. The crisp, golden exterior hides a melty mozzarella center, while the Nashville-style glaze adds that signature spicy-sweet flavor. It’s one of those snacks that makes me reach for just one more every time. Whether I’m cooking for a party or craving something bold, these mozzarella sticks always hit the spot.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Mozzarella Sticks

• 1 pound whole milk mozzarella cheese, sliced into thick sticks (approximately 3 inches by 1/2 inch)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 3 large eggs, whisked

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

• 1 cup plain breadcrumbs

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Avocado oil, for deep frying

Nashville Hot Glaze

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

• 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper, or to taste

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder, optional

• 2 to 3 tablespoons hot sauce

• Salt, to taste

Directions

1. I start by slicing the mozzarella into sticks about 3 inches long and 1/2 inch thick.

2. I set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs, and one combining both breadcrumbs, cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. I dredge each cheese stick in flour, dip it into egg, then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. For a thicker crust, I like to double dip — back into the egg and then breadcrumbs again.

4. I arrange the coated sticks on a baking tray and freeze them for about 15 to 20 minutes to firm up.

5. While the sticks freeze, I heat about 2 inches of avocado oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).

6. I fry the sticks in small batches for 1 to 2 minutes until they’re golden and crisp, then transfer them to a wire rack to drain.

7. For the glaze, I whisk together melted butter, cayenne, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, hot sauce, and salt until smooth and fragrant.

8. I toss the fried mozzarella sticks in the hot glaze or brush it over for a lighter coating.

9. I serve them immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 8 servings (16 mozzarella sticks).

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I like to experiment with the glaze — using honey for a sweeter finish or adding extra hot sauce for a fiery version. I’ve also tried using pepper jack cheese for more spice, or air frying the sticks at 375°F for 6–8 minutes for a lighter version. For a smoky twist, chipotle powder can replace part of the cayenne.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I let them cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I use an oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5–7 minutes until they’re hot and crisp again. I avoid microwaving because it softens the crust and takes away that satisfying crunch.

FAQs

How spicy are these mozzarella sticks?

They’re moderately spicy, but I can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the cayenne pepper and hot sauce in the glaze.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, I can bake them at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, though frying gives the crispiest texture.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?

Whole milk mozzarella melts beautifully and holds its shape, but I can also use low-moisture mozzarella for a firmer bite.

Can I make the glaze ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the Nashville glaze in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. I just reheat it gently before using.

What dipping sauces pair well with these?

I love serving them with ranch, blue cheese dressing, or even a drizzle of honey for a sweet-spicy combo.

Conclusion

Crispy Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are everything I love about bold Southern flavor wrapped up in a crunchy, cheesy snack. The combination of heat, crunch, and melty cheese makes them unforgettable. Whether I’m serving them as an appetizer, a game-day treat, or a fiery snack, these mozzarella sticks always bring the perfect mix of comfort and excitement to the table.

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