Crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside—these Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are coated in a fiery, flavorful spice blend that gives every cheesy bite a bold Southern kick.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy perfection: Melted mozzarella wrapped in a crunchy, golden crust.

• Signature Nashville heat: Bold, smoky, spicy coating brings the heat.

• Make-ahead friendly: Freeze and fry when ready—ideal for parties.

• Fun twist on a classic: A spicy upgrade to the traditional mozzarella stick.

• Customizable spice: Control the heat level to match your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 16 oz block low-moisture mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce

• 2 cups panko breadcrumbs

• Vegetable or canola oil, for frying

For Nashville hot oil:

• 2 tablespoons frying oil (reserved)

• ½ cup hot frying oil

• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons paprika

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon kosher salt

(Optional: Ranch dressing for dipping)

Directions

1. Prepare the cheese
   Cut mozzarella into thick sticks and place them on a parchment-lined tray.

2. Set up breading stations
   In one bowl, mix flour, salt, paprika, and cayenne. In a second bowl, whisk eggs with hot sauce. Place panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

3. Bread the mozzarella
   Dredge each cheese stick in flour, then dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. Repeat egg and breadcrumb coating for extra crunch. Lay sticks back on tray.

4. Freeze the sticks
   Freeze for at least 30 minutes to prevent cheese from oozing during frying.

5. Fry the sticks
   Heat oil to 350°F. Fry sticks in batches for 2–3 minutes or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels or a wire rack.

6. Make Nashville hot oil
   In a heatproof bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt. Carefully whisk in hot frying oil until fully blended.

7. Toss and serve
   Brush or toss the fried mozzarella sticks in the Nashville hot oil. Serve immediately with ranch dressing if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Freeze time: 30 minutes

• Cook time: 10–15 minutes

• Total time: ~1 hour

Variations

• Milder version: Reduce or omit cayenne and hot sauce.

• Extra hot: Add a pinch of ghost pepper powder or extra cayenne.

• Smoky twist: Use smoked paprika in the oil.

• Sweet heat: Add a drizzle of honey over the coated sticks.

• Alternative dips: Serve with blue cheese, sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli.

storage/reheating

• Freezer: Freeze uncooked breaded sticks in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

• Reheat: Air-fry or bake at 400°F for 5–7 minutes until hot and crisp.

• Best served fresh: For optimal texture, enjoy right after frying.

FAQs

1. Can I use string cheese instead of block mozzarella?

Yes, but block mozzarella provides better melting and texture.

2. How do I keep the breading from falling off?

Double coat each stick and freeze them well before frying.

3. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 425°F for 12–15 minutes or until golden and crisp.

4. How do I make them less spicy?

Cut back on cayenne and hot sauce or omit them entirely.

5. Can I air fry them?

Absolutely—air-fry at 400°F for about 8–10 minutes until crisp.

6. How long can I freeze them before frying?

Up to 1 month if stored properly in a sealed container.

7. What’s the purpose of the Nashville hot oil?

It adds bold, spicy flavor and a signature red coating.

8. Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes—freeze the breaded sticks and fry just before serving.

9. What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil like vegetable or canola with a high smoke point.

10. How do I avoid cheese leakage?

Ensure cheese is well-coated and frozen before frying.

Conclusion

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a bold, crave-worthy twist on a classic snack. Spicy, cheesy, and crisp—they’re perfect for parties, game nights, or anytime you want something fun and flavorful. Make a batch and enjoy the irresistible heat and cheese pull!