Copycat Dave’s Hot Chicken Hot Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

If you’re a fan of Dave’s Hot Chicken, you’re in for a treat with this copycat hot mozzarella sticks recipe! It’s not just the fiery spice that sets these cheese sticks apart, but the perfectly crunchy exterior encasing gooey mozzarella cheese that makes them utterly irresistible. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends at a party or simply indulge in a delicious snack, these mozzarella sticks are sure to hit the spot.

The beauty of recreating Dave’s Hot Chicken Hot Mozzarella Sticks at home is that you can control the level of heat and flavor to match your personal preference. Plus, they’re more economical and allow you to experiment with different spices and cheeses. Pair them with a creamy dip or sauce for the ultimate flavor bomb. Feel free to explore more on our other crispy delights such as our fried-dish tips or find the best accompaniments to elevate your dining experience.

How to make Hot Mozzarella Sticks

Making Dave’s Hot Chicken Hot Mozzarella Sticks at home involves a few simple steps. This guide will help you achieve that rich, spicy flavor and crispy texture.

Nutrition facts

These spicy mozzarella sticks are quite an indulgence but worth every calorie. Typically, each serving delivers a scrumptious combination of protein from the cheese and a good dose of calories.

Ingredients

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks (Check Price on Amazon)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (Check Price on Amazon)
• 2 large eggs, beaten (Check Price on Amazon)
• 2 cups Panko breadcrumbs (Check Price on Amazon)
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (Check Price on Amazon)
• 1 cup buttermilk (Check Price on Amazon)
• 1 teaspoon paprika (Check Price on Amazon)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Check Price on Amazon)
• Salt and pepper to taste (Check Price on Amazon)

Tools you’ll need

• Deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Instructions

1. Prepare: Gather all your ingredients and make sure your cooking space is clean and ready.
2. Coat the Cheese: Dip each mozzarella stick in flour, then into a bowl of beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs mixed with spices.
3. Freeze: Place the coated cheese sticks in the freezer for at least 1 hour.
4. Heat the Oil: In a deep fryer or pot, heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
5. Fry: Fry the sticks in batches for about 2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain: Use tongs to remove the sticks from oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.

What to serve with

To complement your spicy mozzarella sticks, consider these hearty pairings:

Drinks

• Pair with refreshing cold drinks like iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer to balance the heat.
• Try a creamy milkshake to offset the spice.

Sides

• Serve with crisp salads from our salads collection for a fresh counterpoint.
• Add a side of creamy coleslaw or garlic bread.

Variations

The base recipe is ripe for customization. Here are some popular twists:

• Try swapping mozzarella for pepper jack cheese for added spice.
• For a Southern twist, add some cornmeal to your breading mix.
• Incorporate different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne into the crust mix.

Ingredient Substitutes

1. Original Ingredient: Mozzarella cheese
   • Bulleted Substitute: Cheddar cheese
   • Bulleted Substitute: Gouda cheese
2. Original Ingredient: All-purpose flour
   • Bulleted Substitute: Almond flour for a gluten-free option
3. Original Ingredient: Eggs
   • Bulleted Substitute: Greek yogurt mixed with water
4. Original Ingredient: Panko breadcrumbs
   • Bulleted Substitute: Crushed cornflakes
5. Original Ingredient: Chili powder
   • Bulleted Substitute: Chipotle powder