Spicy Nashville Mozzarella Sticks (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Mozzarella Sticks
01 -
1 pound mozzarella, cut into 3x2 inch pieces
02 -
1 egg
03 -
1 tablespoon water
04 -
Vegetable oil for frying
→ For the Breading
05 -
2 cups breadcrumbs
06 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
08 -
1 teaspoon oregano
09 -
1 teaspoon pepper
10 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
→ For the Nashville Hot Sauce
11 -
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
12 -
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
13 -
1 tablespoon brown sugar
14 -
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
15 -
1 teaspoon garlic, minced or powdered
16 -
1 teaspoon salt
17 -
1 teaspoon pepper
18 -
1 teaspoon honey (optional)
→ For the Ranch Dressing
19 -
1/2 cup mayonnaise
20 -
1/2 cup sour cream
21 -
1/2 cup buttermilk
22 -
2 teaspoons chives (dried or fresh)
23 -
1 teaspoon lemon juice
24 -
1 teaspoon parsley (dried or fresh)
25 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
26 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
27 -
1 teaspoon salt
28 -
1/2 teaspoon pepper
29 -
1/2 teaspoon sugar
# Instructions:
01 -
Combine all the Nashville Hot Sauce ingredients in a small pot over low heat. Keep whisking until the butter melts, then let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
02 -
Stir together all the ranch dressing ingredients in a bowl until smooth and creamy. Pop it in the fridge to chill while you make the mozzarella sticks.
03 -
Mix up your breading seasonings. Whisk the egg and water together. Dip each piece of mozzarella in the egg wash, then the seasoned breading. Do it again for a double coating - this makes them extra crispy!
04 -
Line up your breaded sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze them for at least 30 minutes until solid. This keeps the cheese from melting too fast when frying.
05 -
Heat 2 inches of oil to 350°F. Fry the frozen sticks for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a rack and brush with that spicy Nashville sauce while they're hot!
# Notes:
01 -
Make sure to freeze the sticks before frying to prevent cheese leakage
02 -
Double breading ensures an extra crispy coating
03 -
Adjust the cayenne in the hot sauce to control heat level