Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
Get ready to turn up the heat with these Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks! Imagine the classic cheesy pull of mozzarella sticks, but with a fiery, crispy coating that packs a serious punch. These spicy, golden bites are paired with a cool, creamy homemade ranch dressing, making them the perfect appetizer or snack for those who love a little kick. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or just craving something indulgent, these mozzarella sticks bring the best of bold flavor and comforting crunch.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb mozzarella cut into 3x2 inch pieces
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp water
- Vegetable oil for frying
Breading
- 2 cups breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Nashville Hot Sauce
- 1/2 cup melted butter unsalted
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic fresh minced or powdered
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp honey optional
Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayo
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp chives dried or fresh
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp parsley dried or fresh
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp sugar
Instructions
Nashville Hot Sauce
- In a small pot over low heat, add all ingredients listed under “Nashville Hot Sauce.” Continuously whisk until the butter melts and allow to simmer for 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Buttermilk Ranch Dressing
- In a bowl, add all ingredients listed under “Buttermilk Ranch Dressing” and mix until thoroughly combined. Set in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Breading
- In a bowl mix together all ingredients listed under “Breading” and set aside.
Assemble
- Whisk together egg and water to create a simple egg wash.
- Take the prepared mozzarella cheese and coat in the egg wash mixture. Then into the seasoned breading.
- Return to the egg wash and finally another dip into the breading. The double breading will insure an impeccable outter crust.
- Place on a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and place in the freezer for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a pan over medium high heat. You want to reach a temperature of 350F.
- Once the mozzarella sticks are solid, gently slide them into the heated oil and fry until golden brown. This should take 2-3 minutes to achieve.
- When cooked, transfer to a cooling rack and brush on the Nashville hot sauce.
- Serve with a side of homemade ranch dressing and enjoy!