Starting Lineup Sampler Recipe
shareable sampler of mozzarella logs, boneless wings and cheeseburger sliders
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Ingredients
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Mozzarella Logs
Boneless Wings (Buffalo-style)
Cheeseburger Sliders
Method
Mozzarella Logs
- 1
Prepare cheese
Cut low-moisture mozzarella into 12 equal sticks if not pre-cut. Pat dry with paper towel to remove excess moisture—this helps prevent leaking during frying.
- 2
Set up dredging stations
Place flour in a shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk eggs with whole milk until smooth. In a third bowl, combine plain breadcrumbs, Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- 3
Coat cheese
One at a time, dredge each mozzarella stick in flour (shake off excess), dip into egg wash, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat. For extra protection and to prevent melting out, repeat the egg wash and breadcrumb coating once (double-coating). Place on a parchment-lined tray and freeze for at least 30 minutes (recommended 45–60 minutes).
- 4
- 5
Serve
Serve hot with warmed marinara sauce for dipping.
Boneless Wings (Buffalo-style)
- 6
Prep chicken
Cut chicken breasts into 1 to 1.25-inch bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine buttermilk and 1 tablespoon hot sauce; add chicken pieces and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (up to 2 hours) to tenderize and flavor.
- 7
Make dredge
In a shallow bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- 8
Coat and fry
Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge each piece in the flour mixture, pressing to adhere. Fry chicken in batches for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C). Drain on paper towels or a wire rack.
- 9
Prepare Buffalo sauce
While chicken fries, in a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt unsalted butter and whisk with the additional 1/2 cup hot sauce until smooth and glossy. Taste and adjust: add a pinch of salt or a squeeze of honey if you prefer slightly milder or sweeter sauce.
- 10
Toss and finish
Place fried chicken in a large bowl, pour buffalo sauce over the pieces, and toss to evenly coat. Return to the rack for a minute to let excess sauce drip and for the coating to set slightly.
- 11
Serve
Arrange boneless wings on the platter with blue cheese dressing and celery sticks for dipping.
Cheeseburger Sliders
- 12
Form patties
Divide ground beef into 8 equal portions (about 2 oz each). Gently form into small, slightly larger-than-bun patties—do not overwork the meat. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and a light drizzle of Worcestershire sauce (or mix Worcestershire into the meat before forming).
- 13
Cook patties
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add a thin film of oil or lightly butter the pan. Cook patties 2–3 minutes per side for medium (adjust time for desired doneness). During the last 30 seconds of cooking, place a slice of cheddar on each patty, cover the pan briefly to melt the cheese.
- 14
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