Name: Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks
Prep time: 1 h 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Ingredients: 12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 tablespoons milk; 2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon Nashville hot seasoning (or mix cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder); 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch); Oil for frying

Last summer we went on a family trip and it was one of those days when nothing really went as planned yet somehow it turned out perfect anyway because we laughed the whole way and we ended up eating way too many snacks together on the road so now every time I make these Nashville hot mozzarella sticks I think back to that drive and it makes me smile

The funny thing is the first time I tried making them at home I totally burnt the first batch and of course everyone teased me about it but then the second round came out golden and crispy and we couldn’t stop pulling the cheese apart because who doesn’t love that stretchy cheese moment right

And here’s the thing these mozzarella sticks aren’t fancy food and they’re not hard either yet they carry that little spark of excitement because when you bite into one it’s hot and crunchy and cheesy all at once so tell me have you ever tried making them yourself or have you only had them at a restaurant because if not you’re definitely in the right place

What is Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a fun twist on the classic cheesy snack. Imagine the gooey, stretchy cheese you already love, wrapped in a crunchy coating, but now coated with spicy Nashville hot seasoning. They’re bold, crispy, and a little fiery, making them a snack that stands out. This recipe is perfect for game nights, family parties, or just when you crave something cheesy with a kick. Even kids who like a bit of spice will find these exciting, though you can always adjust the heat to make them milder.

What to Eat With Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

These mozzarella sticks go perfectly with cool, creamy dipping sauces. Ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or even a sweet honey mustard are great options to balance the heat. You can also serve them alongside Hot Honey Chicken, sliders, or even a fresh salad to create a fun party platter. If you want something heartier, pair them with a plate of fries or potato wedges. They’re versatile, so you can make them the star of the show or just a spicy side dish.

Ingredients

12 mozzarella cheese sticks (string cheese)
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons milk
2 cups seasoned breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon Nashville hot seasoning (or mix cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder)
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
Oil for frying

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Whisk
Shallow plates or trays for dredging
Tongs
Deep frying pan or Dutch oven
Paper towels
Wire rack (optional, for draining)

how to make Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

First, prepare your dredging station. In one shallow bowl, place the flour seasoned with salt and pepper. In another, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. In the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, panko, and Nashville hot seasoning for the coating. Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and lightly pat them dry to remove any excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better.

Next, dip each mozzarella stick into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally roll it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the sticks so they stay coated. For best results, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step again to form a double coating. This ensures no cheese leaks out when frying. Place the coated sticks on a tray and freeze them for at least 1 hour. This step is important because it keeps the cheese from melting too fast in the hot oil.

When ready to cook, heat oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for about 2–3 minutes, turning gently until golden brown and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the oil temperature will drop. Use tongs to remove the sticks and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dips.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, let the mozzarella sticks cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it will make them soggy. You can also freeze the cooked sticks for up to 2 months. Just reheat them directly from frozen in the oven for best texture.

FAQ

1. Can I bake Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks instead of frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10–12 minutes. Spray them lightly with cooking oil before baking to help them crisp up.

2. What dipping sauces go best with these mozzarella sticks?

Ranch, blue cheese, honey mustard, marinara sauce, or even garlic aioli all work wonderfully.

3. How spicy are these mozzarella sticks?

That depends on the seasoning. You can adjust the spice level by reducing or increasing the cayenne pepper in the Nashville mix.

4. Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, cheddar, pepper jack, or Colby cheese sticks can also work, but mozzarella gives the best stretch.

5. Why do I need to freeze the sticks before frying?

Freezing prevents the cheese from melting too quickly and leaking out during frying. It’s the secret to perfect mozzarella sticks.

6. Can I air fry these mozzarella sticks?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C) and cook them for 6–8 minutes until golden and crispy.

7. How do I make them gluten-free?

Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs. Everything else in the recipe stays the same.

8. Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Yes, you can coat and freeze them ahead of time. Just fry or bake them directly from the freezer when you’re ready.

Conclusion

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy, cheesy, and fun twist on a snack everyone loves. They’re crunchy on the outside, gooey on the inside, and packed with flavor. Whether you fry, bake, or air fry them, they’re always a crowd-pleaser. Try them with your favorite dips, and don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to subscribe to the blog for more delicious ideas!