Step-by-Step Instructions
Make the Nashville Hot Sauce:
Whisk melted butter cayenne brown sugar smoked paprika garlic salt pepper and honey if using in a small pot over low heat Keep stirring gently until the butter fully melts Let simmer for one or two minutes so the spices bloom Remove from heat and set aside
Mix the Buttermilk Ranch Dressing:
Stir together mayonnaise sour cream buttermilk chives lemon juice parsley onion powder garlic powder salt pepper and sugar in a bowl Mix until creamy and smooth Chill in the fridge so the flavors meld
Prepare the Breading:
Combine breadcrumbs garlic powder onion powder oregano pepper and salt in a large mixing bowl Stir until all seasoning is evenly distributed
Coat the Cheese:
Crack the egg into a shallow bowl and whisk together with water Lay out the mozzarella sticks Dip each stick into the egg wash making sure all sides are covered Roll in the seasoned breadcrumbs Then dip again in the egg wash and bread a second time This double layer makes the crust extra crispy
Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks:
Arrange coated sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment Slide the tray into the freezer for at least thirty minutes This keeps the cheese from melting out during frying
Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Heat two inches of vegetable oil in a heavy pan over medium high until shimmering and a thermometer reads three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit Gently lower the frozen mozzarella sticks into the oil Do not overcrowd Fry for two to three minutes turning as needed until golden brown
Finish and Serve:
Lift out the fried sticks and drain on a rack Brush each with plenty of the Nashville hot sauce for flavor and shine Serve immediately with cold ranch dressing
You Must Know
- High protein snack with big flavor
- Great for prepping ahead and freezing
- Can adjust the heat level to taste
I always look forward to brushing on the hot sauce fresh from the fryer That little moment when the spiced butter hits the crispy shell is pure satisfaction Once my cousin tried to sneak a stick before it was sauced and now he always waits for the full spicy experience
Storage Tips
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