Hey everyone, are you ready for a snack that’s super cheesy, extra crunchy, and a little bit spicy? You guys are going to love these Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks! They’re like regular mozzarella sticks, but rolled in crushed Hot Cheetos for an explosion of flavor in every bite! 💥
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 10 mins | 25 mins | 4-6 | Easy |
My Hot Cheeto Love Story
Okay, so picture this: I’m at a friend’s house, and they bring out a plate of these fiery red mozzarella sticks. I was like, “Hot Cheetos on mozzarella sticks?” I had to try them!
One bite and I was in cheesy, crunchy heaven! I knew I had to figure out how to make these at home. So I did a little experimenting, and guess what? They’re super easy to make!
Why You’ll ❤️ This Recipe:
- Crazy Crunchy! These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are coated in crushed Hot Cheetos for maximum crunch! 💥
- Melty, Gooey Cheese! Inside that crunchy coating is a warm, melty surprise of cheesy goodness. 🤤
- Fun to Make (and Eat!) This recipe is perfect for making with friends or surprising your family with a yummy snack. 🎉
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Mozzarella Sticks: You can use regular mozzarella sticks or string cheese cut into sticks!
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps the coating stick to the cheese.
- Eggs: We’ll whisk these up to make the Hot Cheetos stick.
- Hot Cheetos: Of course, we need the star of the show!
- Oil (for frying): This makes our sticks nice and crispy.
- Ranch Dressing (for dipping): Trust me, it’s the best dipping sauce for these!
Print This Recipe for Future Reference
Substitutions:
| Ingredient | Substitutes |
|---|---|
| All-Purpose Flour | Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour, Almond Flour |
| Hot Cheetos | Spicy Nacho Cheese Doritos, Spicy Cheetos Puffs, Any Spicy Cheese Flavored Chips, Panko Breadcrumbs (add a pinch of cayenne pepper) |
Scroll down to the recipe card section of the post for the ingredients with amounts included and for more complete directions.
Equipment Checklist:
| Equipment | Description |
|---|---|
| Measuring Cups | For measuring out your ingredients accurately. |
| Measuring Spoons | For measuring smaller amounts of ingredients. |
| Mixing Bowls | You’ll need a few for the flour, eggs, and crushed Hot Cheetos. |
| Whisk | For whisking the eggs until they’re smooth. |
| Fork | For fishing out the cooked mozzarella sticks from the oil. |
| Plate or Tray | For holding the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying. |
| Paper Towels | For soaking up excess oil after frying. |
| Skillet or Pot | For frying the mozzarella sticks. |
| Slotted Spoon | For safely removing the mozzarella sticks from the hot oil. |
Let’s Make Some Hot Cheeto Magic!:
- Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks: Put your mozzarella sticks in the freezer for about 30 minutes. This will help them stay together while we fry them!
- Crush the Hot Cheetos: Put your Hot Cheetos in a zip-top bag and crush them into small pieces. You can use a rolling pin or even just your hands!
- Set Up Your Breading Station: Grab three shallow bowls. Put the flour in one bowl, the whisked eggs in another, and the crushed Hot Cheetos in the last bowl.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks: Dip each mozzarella stick in the flour, then the egg, and finally, roll it in the crushed Hot Cheetos until it’s completely covered. Pro Tip: Gently press the Hot Cheetos into the cheese stick to make sure they really stick!
- Heat the Oil: Pour enough oil into your skillet to cover the mozzarella sticks completely. Heat it over medium heat. Pro Tip: To test if the oil is hot enough, carefully drop a small crumb of the coating into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the top, you’re good to go!
- Fry Time! Carefully place a few mozzarella sticks in the hot oil at a time. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry them for about 1-2 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to take the mozzarella sticks out of the oil and put them on a plate lined with paper towels. This will soak up any extra oil. Let them cool for a minute or two (they’ll be super hot!) and then serve them with your favorite dipping sauce!
Watch the video tutorial here!
Pro Tips for Perfect Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks :
- Freeze First!: Don’t skip freezing the mozzarella sticks! It prevents a melty mess. ❄️
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch: Dip each mozzarella stick twice in the egg and Hot Cheetos for a super crunchy coating! 🤯
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches so they cook evenly.
- Safety First!: Be careful when working with hot oil!
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Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips:
These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are best served hot and fresh, but you can definitely make them ahead of time!
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare the mozzarella sticks up to the frying step.
- Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Freeze for 1-2 hours, or until solid.
- Transfer the frozen mozzarella sticks to a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.
Serving Ideas:
- Dipping Sauces: Ranch dressing is a classic pairing, but you can also try marinara sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy mayo!
- Game Day Snack: These are perfect for game day parties! 🎉
- Movie Night Munchies: Curl up with a good movie and a plate of these cheesy sticks! 🍿
Nutritional Information:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Protein | 12g |
While these Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are definitely a treat, they do offer some protein and calcium thanks to the mozzarella cheese!
Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (at least 3) – for flour, egg, and Hot Cheetos coating.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for ingredient accuracy.
- Whisk – to whisk eggs evenly.
- Skillet or pot – for frying.
- Slotted spoon – to safely remove the mozzarella sticks from oil.
- Plate or tray – to hold breaded sticks before frying.
- Paper towels – for draining excess oil.
- Rolling pin or hands – to crush Hot Cheetos.
Ingredients
- 8 mozzarella sticks or string cheese
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs whisked
- 2 cups Hot Cheetos crushed into small crumbs
- Oil for frying
- Ranch dressing optional, for dipping
- Substitutions:
- All-purpose flour: Swap with gluten-free flour or almond flour.
- Hot Cheetos: Use Spicy Nacho Cheese Doritos Spicy Cheetos Puffs, or any spicy cheese-flavored chips. For a milder option, use Panko breadcrumbs mixed with cayenne.
Instructions
- Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks
- Place mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This helps prevent the cheese from leaking during frying.
- Prep the Hot Cheetos Coating
- Add Hot Cheetos to a zip-top bag and crush them using a rolling pin or your hands until they resemble fine crumbs. Alternatively, use a food processor. Place the crumbs in a shallow bowl.
- Set Up the Coating Station
- Grab three shallow bowls:
- – Bowl 1: Add flour.
- – Bowl 2: Whisk eggs until smooth.
- – Bowl 3: Add crushed Hot Cheetos.
- Bread the Mozzarella Sticks
- Dip each mozzarella stick in this order:
- – Coat lightly in flour.
- – Dip fully into the beaten eggs.
- – Roll in crushed Hot Cheetos, pressing gently to help the coating stick.
- – Optional: Repeat the egg and Hot Cheetos step for a thicker coating.
- Heat the Oil
- In a skillet or pot, pour enough oil to submerge the mozzarella sticks. Heat over medium heat until oil reaches about 350°F. To test, drop a crumb into the oil–it should sizzle and float to the surface.
- Fry the Mozzarella Sticks
- Carefully place a few mozzarella sticks in the hot oil (do not overcrowd the pan). Fry for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain the Sticks
- Remove sticks from the oil using a slotted spoon. Place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.
- Serve
- Serve immediately with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the melty, cheesy, and crunchy delight!
Video
Notes
Double Coat: For an extra-crunchy layer, double dip the mozzarella sticks in egg and Hot Cheetos.
Freeze First: Skipping the freezing step may result in melted cheese leaking out during frying.
Don’t Overcrowd: Frying in small batches ensures crispy and evenly cooked sticks.
Test Oil Temperature: Hot oil is key to crispiness; too cool and the sticks will absorb oil and turn soggy.
Make-Ahead Tips
Bread your mozzarella sticks, then freeze them in a single layer on a parchment-lined tray for 1–2 hours.
Transfer frozen mozzarella sticks to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.
Cook straight from frozen by adding an extra minute to the frying time.
You can bake these instead of frying for a healthier option. Bake at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Try pepper jack cheese for an added kick of spice.
Leftover crushed Hot Cheetos can be sprinkled on popcorn, salads, or soups for a flavorful garnish.
Craving More Cheesy Goodness? Try These Recipes!
- Jalapeño Popper Pizza Rolls: Combine your love for all things cheesy and spicy with these pizza rolls exploding with jalapeno popper goodness!
- Cheesy Taco Dip: Need a crowd-pleasing dip for your next gathering? This Cheesy Taco Dip, loaded with flavor and perfect with tortilla chips, will have everyone coming back for more!
Essential Tools:
1. Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife is essential for any kitchen, and it comes in handy for quickly and easily cutting your mozzarella sticks into even pieces.
2. Set of Mixing Bowls: Having a variety of sizes on hand is always a plus, but you’ll especially want at least three for this recipe – one for the flour, one for the eggs, and one for those crushed Hot Cheetos!
I’m comparing two highly-rated chef’s knives available on Amazon, perfect for this recipe and beyond:
| Feature | Victorinox Fibrox Pro 8-Inch Chef’s Knife | Zwilling J.A. Henckels Classic 8-inch Chef’s Knife |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $$ | $$$ |
| Blade Material | High-Carbon Stainless Steel | High-Carbon Stainless Steel |
| Handle Material | Fibrox Pro (ergonomic, slip-resistant) | Polymer (triple-riveted, comfortable) |
| Sharpness | Very Sharp, Easy to Sharpen | Extremely Sharp, Long-Lasting Edge |
| Weight | Lightweight | Mid-Weight |
| Special Features | Dishwasher Safe | Full bolster and finger guard for added safety |
Both of these knives are excellent choices, so it comes down to personal preference! The Victorinox is a fantastic value for its price, while the Zwilling J.A. Henckels is an investment in a knife that will last you for years to come.
- 【Premium Stainless Steel Design】This mixing bowl set is crafted from food-grade 304 stainless steel material, which is r…
- 【Non-Slip Silicone Bottom】 Each bowl is equipped with a silicone bottom that provides a secure grip and keeps it firmly …
- 【3 Graters & Airtight Lids】Our lid design fits tightly onto the bowl, helping to maintain the freshness of food by isola…
Let’s Chat!
What’s your favorite dipping sauce for mozzarella sticks? Let me know in the comments below! And don’t forget to pin this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can make it again and again! 📌
FAQ:
1. Can I bake these instead of frying them?
Yes, but they won’t be as crispy. Bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
2. Can I use a different kind of cheese?
Sure! Pepper Jack cheese would be delicious for an extra kick!
3. What should I do with leftover crushed Hot Cheetos?
Sprinkle them on salads, soups, or even popcorn for an extra crunch and cheesy flavor.
4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Follow the make-ahead freezing instructions above.
5. I don’t have a thermometer. How can I tell if the oil is hot enough?
Carefully drop a small bread crumb into the oil. If it sizzles and floats to the top, it’s ready!
Are You Ready for a Snack Attack?
I can’t wait for you to try these Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks! They’re seriously the best snack for parties, movie nights, or just because. Be sure to tag me on Pinterest with pictures of your cheesy creations! Happy snacking! 😊
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