Nashville Hot Honey Mozzarella Sticks

Slice the low moisture mozzarella into thick slices, about ½” thick.

Set up your battering station with three bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, add the eggs and beat until smooth. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs and seasonings together.

Dredge each mozzarella stick through the flour, then the beaten eggs, then the panko mixture. Use your fingers to pat the breadcrumbs into the mozzarella sticks. For extra coating, dredge the mozzarella sticks back into the eggs then back into the breadcrumbs.

Place on a flat plate or sheet pan lined with parchment paper in a single layer to freeze 10-15 minutes.

While the mozzarella sticks freeze, combine the butter, brown sugar, and honey into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted and the sauce is just beginning to bubble.

Stir in the smoked paprika and hot sauce to taste. Keep over low heat so that the sauce doesn’t thicken up.

Bring a saucepan with 4-5” of neutral frying oil to 350F. Working in small batches of 2-3 sticks, fry until deeply golden brown, about 4-5 minutes.

Working fast, brush the mozzarella sticks with the Nashville hot sauce. Enjoy immediately with ranch on the side.

If needed, reheat in the oven at 400F for 4-5 minutes.