Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks
Dive into the ultimate cheesy, crunchy, and spicy snack wonder with Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks! Perfect for game days, parties, or just a fun treat, this snack is packed with melty mozzarella goodness and a fiery crunch from Hot Cheetos. Easy to make and impossible to resist!
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
Pro Tips
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.
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.