Description
Crispy Nashville hot mozzarella sticks combine gooey, melted mozzarella cheese with a spicy, crunchy Nashville hot seasoning-coated exterior. This appetizer is perfect for snacking and is served with a drizzle of hot sauce and optional fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Scale
Mozzarella Sticks
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into thick sticks
Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tsp Nashville hot chicken seasoning
For Frying and Serving
- 2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)
- Hot sauce, to drizzle on top
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare Mozzarella Sticks: Cut the fresh mozzarella cheese into sticks about 1 inch wide and 3 to 4 inches long to ensure even frying and gooey centers.
- Set Up Coating Station: Prepare three separate bowls: one with all-purpose flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed evenly with the Nashville hot chicken seasoning for a spicy flavorful crust.
- Coat the Cheese: Dredge each mozzarella stick first in the flour, ensuring full coverage, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs to create a crisp, spicy coating.
- Freeze the Coated Sticks: Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a tray and freeze for about 30 minutes to solidify the coating and prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
- Heat Oil: In a deep pot or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C), which is the ideal temperature for achieving a crispy exterior without absorbing excess oil.
- Fry the Sticks: Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding to maintain oil temperature.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried sticks and place them briefly on paper towels to drain excess oil. Drizzle with hot sauce for an extra kick and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately for the best gooey and crispy experience.
Notes
- Freezing the coated sticks before frying is crucial to prevent cheese from leaking out.
- Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for best frying results and to avoid sogginess.
- Use fresh mozzarella for the best melt and texture.
- You can adjust the amount of Nashville hot seasoning to control spice level.
- Serve hot to enjoy the crispy outside and gooey cheese inside contrast.
