Name: Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, cut into sticks; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 tablespoons hot sauce; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup cornmeal; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; Oil for frying

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Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella brings a delightful twist to your average cheesy snack. With its crispy outer layer and gooey, spicy center, this dish elevates mozzarella sticks to new heights. Perfect for game days, parties, or simply satisfying a craving, these hot mozzarella sticks pack a flavorful punch that will leave your taste buds buzzing with excitement.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 350
Protein: 15 grams
Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Fat: 20 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella

If you love a kick in your snacks, Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella is a must-try. These sticks offer a glorious crunch and a burst of spice that balances perfectly with the rich, creamy mozzarella. They serve as an excellent appetizer, game-day snack, or movie night treat. Plus, making them at home allows for customization—you can adjust the spice levels to your preference, making them as mild or fiery as you like!

How to Make Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella

Making these hot mozzarella sticks is straightforward, and the results are absolutely rewarding. It involves a few simple steps: preparing the cheese, mixing the batter, and frying to crispy perfection. Let’s break down the process!

Ingredients:

Mozzarella cheese
Buttermilk
Hot sauce
All-purpose flour
Cornmeal
Paprika
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Cayenne pepper
Salt
Pepper
Oil for frying

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Cut mozzarella cheese into sticks, approximately 1 inch wide. This ensures the cheese melts evenly during frying.
Step 2: Mixing

In a bowl, mix buttermilk and hot sauce together. This marinated mixture will enhance the flavor of the mozzarella sticks.
Step 3: Coating

In another bowl, combine flour, cornmeal, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully mixed. This seasoned coating will give the sticks their delicious crunch.
Step 4: Dipping

Dip each mozzarella stick into the buttermilk mixture, letting excess drip off. Immediately coat them with the flour mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres well.
Step 5: Heating

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. You want enough oil to cover about half of the mozzarella sticks for even cooking.
Step 6: Frying

Fry the mozzarella sticks until golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Step 7: Finishing

Remove the sticks and drain on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot with extra hot sauce on the side if desired for an additional fiery kick.

How to Serve Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella

Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella is best enjoyed hot right after frying. Pair them with a cooling dip like ranch or blue cheese to balance out the heat. You can also serve them on a platter with some celery sticks and carrots for a crunchy, fresh accompaniment.

How to Store Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella

If you happen to have leftovers, place the cooled mozzarella sticks in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to regain their crispy texture.

Expert Tips for Perfect Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella

Freezing Before Frying: For extra cheesy sticks, freeze the battered mozzarella sticks before frying for about 30 minutes. This ensures they retain their shape better while cooking.
Oil Temperature: Make sure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F or 175°C) before adding the mozzarella sticks. This helps create that perfect crispy texture without saturating them with oil.
Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the cayenne pepper in the flour mix based on your heat preference. Adding more will give an extra kick!

Delicious Variations

Cheesy Southwest Style: Add some chili powder and cumin for a southwestern flair!
Italian Twist: Use Italian seasoning in the dredging mixture and serve with marinara sauce instead of hot sauce.
Buffalo Style: Replace the hot sauce in the buttermilk mixture with buffalo sauce for a buffalo mozzarella stick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! You can try cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile, although they may melt differently.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by whisking 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice into a cup of milk and letting it sit for about 5 minutes.
How do I make these gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure your cornmeal is certified gluten-free.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the mozzarella sticks, freeze them, and fry them straight from the freezer—they will require a minute or two extra in the frying process.
What’s the best way to ensure the mozzarella doesn’t ooze out?
Freezing the battered sticks for about 30 minutes before frying helps them keep their shape and allows the coating to set.

Conclusion

Crispy Spicy Nashville Hot Mozzarella is an irresistible snack that combines texture and flavor wonderfully. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging in a late-night treat, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the creamy heat of these delightful mozzarella sticks! Happy cooking!