Elevate your appetizer game with these Nashville Hot
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 16 oz block of low-moisture mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons hot sauce
- 1 1/3 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
- 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cups vegetable oil for frying (or more as needed)
For the Nashville Hot Glaze:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce
- Salt to taste
Directions:
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Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Cut the mozzarella cheese into 8 “plank”-shaped pieces, about 1/2-inch thick.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together flour, salt, and black pepper.
- In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs and mix in the hot sauce.
- In a third shallow dish, combine seasoned breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs.
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Bread the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Dredge each mozzarella piece in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
- Coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- For an extra-crispy coating, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for double breading.
- Place breaded sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
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Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Transfer to a wire rack to drain excess oil.
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Prepare the Nashville Hot Glaze:
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Stir in brown sugar, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, hot sauce, and salt.
- Whisk until smooth and well combined.
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Glaze the Mozzarella Sticks:
- While the fried mozzarella sticks are still warm, brush them generously with the Nashville hot glaze.
- Serve immediately with ranch dressing or your preferred dipping sauce.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Appetizer
When it comes to indulgent comfort food, few things can compete with the irresistible combination of crispy fried coating and gooey melted cheese. Mozzarella sticks have been a staple appetizer in restaurants and home kitchens for decades, beloved for their crunchy exterior and satisfying cheese pull. But what happens when you take this classic dish and give it a fiery Southern twist? Enter Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks, a bold and spicy take on the traditional mozzarella stick that brings the heat of Nashville-style hot chicken to a whole new level.
The Origins of Nashville Hot Flavor
The inspiration behind Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks comes from the famous Nashville Hot Chicken, a dish that originated in Tennessee. Known for its deep red, cayenne-laden spice, Nashville Hot Chicken was reportedly created by Thornton Prince in the 1930s as a fiery revenge dish served to him by a scorned lover. However, instead of being deterred by the heat, he loved it and so did everyone else. Over time, this spicy fried chicken became a staple in the region, eventually spreading across the country and inspiring various spin-offs, from hot shrimp to hot fries.
This signature Nashville Hot seasoning typically consists of cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and brown sugar, creating a balance of intense heat and subtle sweetness. When combined with the rich, creamy flavor of melted mozzarella and the crispiness of a golden-brown breading, the result is an appetizer that delivers both spice and indulgence in every bite.
Why Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks?
Mozzarella sticks are already a favorite for many due to their simplicity and satisfying textures. However, adding the bold Nashville hot spice brings an extra layer of excitement to the dish. Here are a few reasons why Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a must-try:
1. A Perfect Balance of Heat and Cheese
The creamy, mild taste of mozzarella cheese acts as the perfect counterbalance to the fiery Nashville Hot glaze. The moment you take a bite, the spice hits first, followed by the comforting, melty cheese, creating a contrast that keeps you coming back for more.
2. The Ultimate Party Snack
Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering, a casual party, or a spicy food challenge, these mozzarella sticks are sure to be a hit. They pair well with cooling dips like ranch, blue cheese, or even honey mustard to tame the heat and add extra flavor dimensions.
3. Customizable Spice Levels
One of the great things about Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks is that they can be tailored to individual spice preferences. If you enjoy a milder kick, you can reduce the cayenne and chili powder in the seasoning. On the other hand, if you’re a spice enthusiast, feel free to crank up the heat with extra cayenne and a splash of hot sauce.
4. A Unique Twist on a Classic
If you’re looking for a way to elevate your appetizer game, this dish is a fantastic way to surprise and impress guests. Traditional mozzarella sticks are delicious, but the spicy twist adds an unexpected yet deliciously bold kick that makes them stand out.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks can be served in a variety of ways, depending on the occasion. Here are some excellent serving ideas:
- Classic Dipping Sauces: Cool things down with ranch dressing, blue cheese sauce, or a simple garlic aioli. The creaminess of these dips helps cut through the heat.
- Sweet and Spicy Contrast: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can create an unexpected but delightful contrast, enhancing both the heat and the richness of the cheese.
- As a Side Dish: These mozzarella sticks pair exceptionally well with burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, or even a Nashville hot chicken platter for a complete meal.
- With a Cold Beverage: A crisp lager, a refreshing lemonade, or a sweet tea can help balance out the spiciness while making the experience even more enjoyable.
Tips for the Best Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
To achieve the perfect crispy exterior and melty interior, keep these tips in mind:
- Freeze Before Frying – One of the most important steps is to freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying. This ensures they don’t melt too quickly in the hot oil, preserving that gooey center.
- Use a Double Breading Technique – Dipping the sticks twice in the breadcrumb mixture helps create a thicker, crunchier crust that holds up well to frying and glazing.
- Monitor the Oil Temperature – Maintain the oil at 375°F (190°C) for the best frying results. If the oil is too hot, the outside will burn before the cheese melts; if it’s too cold, the sticks will absorb excess oil and become greasy.
- Apply the Glaze While Hot – For maximum flavor, brush the Nashville Hot glaze onto the mozzarella sticks while they are still warm. This allows the flavors to soak into the crispy coating without making it soggy.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of bold flavors and cheesy indulgence, Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a must try. They bring together the comforting nostalgia of classic mozzarella sticks with the fiery excitement of Nashville Hot Chicken, making for a snack that is as addictive as it is delicious.
Whether you’re serving them at a party, enjoying them as a snack, or simply looking for a way to spice up your appetizer repertoire, these mozzarella sticks deliver crunch, spice, and cheesiness in every bite. So why not give them a try and experience the best of both worlds heat and cheese like never before?