Crispy, gooey mozzarella sticks dusted with bold Nashville-style spice blend—fiery, cheesy, and perfect for zest seekers or game-day snacking.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks take the classic fried cheese stick to the next level with a fiery Nashville hot seasoning. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs, melted mozzarella, and bold spice makes for an irresistible appetizer or snack. They’re perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat and crave a cheesy, crunchy bite. Whether you’re serving them at a party, game day, or just because, these mozzarella sticks will disappear fast!
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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12 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 3-inch sticks
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs, beaten
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2 cups panko breadcrumbs
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2 Tbsp Nashville hot seasoning (or blend chili powder, cayenne, garlic powder)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Oil for frying
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks
Cut the mozzarella into 3-inch sticks. Arrange them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze them for at least 1 hour to prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying.
Step 2: Dredging Station
Set up a dredging station with three separate dishes:
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Dish 1: Place flour.
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Dish 2: Beat the eggs.
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Dish 3: Combine panko breadcrumbs, Nashville hot seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Sticks
Working quickly, dredge each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, dip in the beaten eggs, then coat in the panko mixture. For extra crunch and flavor, repeat the egg and panko dredging process.
Step 4: Freeze Again
Return the coated mozzarella sticks to the freezer for another 15 minutes to firm them up before frying.
Step 5: Fry the Sticks
Heat oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 1-2 minutes until golden and crispy. Be sure to flip them for even frying.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Once fried, drain the sticks on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately with a side of ranch or blue cheese dip.
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ freeze time)
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Cooking Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes (including freezing)
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Kcal: ~230 kcal per stick
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Servings: ~16 sticks
Tips & Insights
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Storage Tip: These mozzarella sticks can be made ahead and frozen for later use. Just fry them directly from the freezer for a quick snack.
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Extra Heat: If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add more hot seasoning to the panko mixture.
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Serving Suggestions: These mozzarella sticks pair perfectly with a cold beverage like beer or iced tea and a tangy dipping sauce for a game-day or party treat.
Conclusion
These Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate snack for anyone who loves a spicy kick with their cheesy bites. Perfectly crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and full of flavor, they’re sure to become a crowd favorite at your next gathering!
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Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
Golden-brown, cheesy sticks with a dual-cheese filling that stretches deliciously—perfect for parties, snacks, or game-day treats.
- Total Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes (including freezing)
- Yield: ~16 sticks
Ingredients
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 3-inch sticks
8 oz mozzarella cheese, cut into 3-inch sticks
2 large eggs
2 cups panko breadcrumbs
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup all-purpose flour
Oil, for frying
Instructions
Arrange equal cheddar and mozzarella sticks side by side to form cheese pairs.
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each cheese pair in flour, dip into egg, then coat thoroughly in seasoned panko. For extra crispiness, repeat egg + panko dredging.
Place coated sticks on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to prevent oozing.
Heat oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C). Fry frozen cheese sticks in batches for about 1–2 minutes, until golden brown.
Use a slotted spoon to transfer to paper towels to drain excess oil.
Serve immediately with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (+ freeze time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
