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Copycat Chilis Mozzarella Sticks

Nashville Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Nashville hot mozzarella sticks with crispy breading, gooey cheese, and a spicy butter sauce inspired by hot chicken.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
1 hour 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Vegetable oil for frying
  • Nashville Hot Sauce:
  • ½ cup butter
  • 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder

Instructions
 

  • Unwrap mozzarella sticks and freeze for at least 1 hour.
  • Set up three bowls: flour with salt and pepper, eggs whisked with milk, and breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning.
  • Dredge each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs.
  • Repeat egg and breadcrumb step for double coating.
  • Freeze breaded sticks for an additional 30 minutes.
  • Heat oil to 350°F in a deep pan.
  • Fry mozzarella sticks in batches for 1–2 minutes until golden.
  • Remove and drain on paper towels.
  • Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat.
  • Stir in cayenne, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and chili powder until smooth.
  • Brush or drizzle hot sauce over fried mozzarella sticks.
  • Serve immediately with ranch dressing.

Notes

Freezing is essential for preventing cheese leakage. Adjust cayenne to control spice level.