Description

There’s something about mozzarella sticks that instantly brings you back to cozy Friday nights, casual get-togethers, or those nostalgic diner runs with friends. They’re golden, gooey, and always a crowd-pleaser. But when you add that unmistakable Nashville hot spice kick? That’s when they go from familiar to unforgettable.

This recipe combines the creamy comfort of classic mozzarella sticks with the fiery, deep flavor of Nashville’s iconic hot chicken seasoning. The result? A bold, cheesy, crunchy appetizer that’s perfect for spice-lovers or anyone who loves a good flavor punch with their snack.

Growing up, mozzarella sticks were always a staple at birthday parties or movie nights in our house. But after visiting Nashville and tasting their legendary hot chicken, I knew I had to find a way to bring that same heat to one of my all-time favorite finger foods. And so, this spicy, crispy love child was born.

Whether you’re hosting game day, throwing a backyard party, or just craving a little kick with your cheese, these Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks are a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients

Scale

12 mozzarella cheese sticks

1 cup all-purpose flour

3 large eggs

2 tablespoons hot sauce

2 cups Italian-style breadcrumbs

1 tablespoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Vegetable oil, for frying

2 tablespoons butter

1 tablespoon brown sugar

1 tablespoon cayenne pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon chili powder

¼ teaspoon onion powder

Pickles (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Set the Stage

Start by placing your mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This helps keep the cheese from oozing out too quickly when you fry them — we want that gooey pull, not a melted mess.

Step 2: Prep the Breading Stations

Set up three shallow bowls:

One with flour
One with beaten eggs mixed with hot sauce
One with breadcrumbs, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper

Think of this as your mozzarella stick assembly line.

Step 3: Coat and Coat Again

Take a frozen cheese stick and roll it in flour, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the spicy breadcrumb mixture. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more. Double coating makes all the difference — it’s the secret to that restaurant-quality bite.

Step 4: Chill Again

Once they’re all coated, pop the sticks back into the freezer for another 20–30 minutes. This extra chill helps them hold their shape in the hot oil.

Step 5: Fry to Perfection

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Once it hits 350°F (a breadcrumb should sizzle when dropped in), gently lower in the sticks, a few at a time. Fry for about 1–2 minutes or until golden brown. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 6: Make the Nashville Hot Butter Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt butter and whisk in brown sugar, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, and onion powder. Stir until combined and warmed through. Brush this fiery glaze over the freshly fried mozzarella sticks for that unmistakable Nashville flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Pile them high, serve with pickles on the side if you like that classic Nashville touch, and dip into ranch or your favorite creamy sauce to balance the heat.

Notes

If you’re making these for a party, you can bread and freeze them ahead of time. Just pull them out and fry when ready.
Serve them right away — they’re best hot and crispy.