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Nashville Hot Mozzarella Stick coated in spicy crispy crust, golden brown, served with a side of dipping sauce.

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Stick – Spicy Crispy Cheese Appetizer

This Nashville Hot Mozzarella Stick recipe delivers crispy, gooey cheese coated in fiery Nashville-style seasoning. Perfect as a spicy appetizer, party snack, or indulgent comfort food treat.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Appetizer, Finger food, Snack
Cuisine American, Comfort Food, Game Day Snacks
Servings 6 (3–4 sticks per person)
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Deep fryer, skillet, oven, or air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk for egg wash
  • Tongs
  • Plate with paper towels for draining
  • Baking sheet (oven or air fryer method)

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 12 mozzarella sticks (fresh block cut into sticks or pre-packaged)
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
  • 2 tbsp butter

Seasonings & Hot Oil

  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Flavor Boosters

  • Honey for drizzling
  • Hot sauce for extra heat
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • Pro Insight: Double coating increases crunch and keeps cheese from leaking.

Instructions
 

  • Prep the Mozzarella Sticks: Cut fresh mozzarella if needed and chill in freezer 15–20 minutes.
  • Set Up Breading Stations: Prepare flour, egg wash, and seasoned breadcrumbs. Double dredge for extra crunch.
  • Coat the Cheese Sticks: Dredge in flour → egg → breadcrumbs → optional second coating. Press gently but firmly.
  • Fry or Air-Fry:
    Frying: Heat oil to ~350°F / 175°C; cook sticks until golden brown.
    Air-Fryer: Preheat, lightly spray sticks with oil, and cook until crisp.
    Oven: Bake at 400°F / 200°C for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway.
  • Prepare Nashville Hot Butter: Melt butter and mix in cayenne, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Adjust heat to taste.
  • Coat Mozzarella Sticks: Toss or brush sticks in hot butter sauce. Optional honey drizzle for sweet-spicy balance.
  • Serve Immediately: Garnish with parsley and serve with dipping sauces such as ranch, blue cheese, or garlic aioli.
  • Bold Tip: Serve hot — cheese sticks cool quickly and lose their stretchiness.

Notes

  • Chill mozzarella before breading to prevent cheese leakage.
  • Double coat sticks for maximum crunch.
  • Brush with Nashville hot butter immediately after cooking for flavor.
  • Serve hot for best melty texture; avoid microwaving leftovers.
  • Freeze unbaked, breaded sticks for up to 2 months; cook directly from frozen.
  • Optional add-ins: extra spices, honey-sriracha drizzle, or Parmesan for variation.
 
 
Keyword air fryer snack, fried cheese, game day food, gooey mozzarella, Nashville hot mozzarella sticks, party appetizer, spicy cheese sticks, spicy snack