Name: Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-484653H4M26S
Total time: PT-484653H4M26S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 bag (8.5 ounces / 6 cups) flaming hot Cheetos, crushed (about 3 cups); 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half; ½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; 4 large eggs, room temperature; Parsley, chopped, for garnish; Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping

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If you’re looking for a snack that’s both cheesy and spicy, these Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are a game-changer! Imagine gooey mozzarella cheese coated in a crunchy, fiery layer of Hot Cheetos—this recipe combines the best of both worlds. Perfect for game day, parties, or just a fun afternoon snack, these mozzarella sticks are packed with bold flavors that will satisfy your craving for something savory and spicy.

The crunchy, cheesy exterior and warm, melty interior of these Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks create a deliciously indulgent treat. The combination of fiery Cheetos and the mildness of mozzarella cheese makes every bite exciting. Plus, they’re super easy to make at home, so you can enjoy this snack whenever you’re in the mood for something bold and crispy. Whether you’re dipping them in ranch or blue cheese, this snack is sure to become your new favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold and Flavorful

The spicy Hot Cheetos combined with gooey mozzarella make for a snack that packs a punch in both flavor and texture.

2. Perfectly Crispy

The crispy coating of crushed Hot Cheetos gives the mozzarella sticks a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the melty cheese inside.

3. Simple Ingredients

With just a handful of ingredients, these mozzarella sticks are easy to make at home without any fancy equipment.

4. Customizable Heat

You can adjust the amount of Hot Cheetos to suit your spice preference, making these mozzarella sticks as mild or as fiery as you like.

5. Great for Sharing

These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are perfect for parties, game nights, or any time you want to serve a crowd-pleasing snack.

Ingredients

Flaming Hot Cheetos (crushed)
Mozzarella string cheese sticks (cut in half)
All-purpose flour
Kosher salt
Garlic powder
Large eggs (room temperature)
Parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)

Variations

Cheddar Cheetos Version: For a less spicy but equally flavorful option, try using regular cheddar Cheetos instead of the Flaming Hot variety.
Double Coating: For extra crunch, dip the mozzarella sticks in flour, egg, and then Cheetos crumbs twice before frying.
Spicy Ranch Dip: Mix your ranch dressing with some sriracha or hot sauce to create a spicy dip that complements the heat in the mozzarella sticks.
Baked Version: If you prefer a healthier option, bake the mozzarella sticks instead of frying them for a lighter version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cheeto Coating

In a food processor or by hand, crush the Hot Cheetos into fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a shallow bowl and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Mozzarella Sticks

Cut the mozzarella string cheese sticks in half to make smaller portions. Set them aside.

Step 3: Set up the Breading Station

In three separate shallow bowls, place the following:

All-purpose flour mixed with kosher salt and garlic powder.
Beaten eggs (make sure they’re at room temperature).
Crushed Hot Cheetos.

Step 4: Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then coat it thoroughly in the crushed Hot Cheetos crumbs.

Step 5: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, turning them occasionally until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per batch.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the mozzarella sticks from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure the mozzarella sticks are cold before frying to prevent the cheese from melting out.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying. Fry in batches to ensure the mozzarella sticks cook evenly and get crispy.
If you prefer a thicker Cheeto coating, repeat the dredging process to double coat the mozzarella sticks.
You can freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks for 30 minutes before frying to help maintain their shape and prevent the cheese from oozing out too quickly.

How to Serve

These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are best served immediately after frying while they’re still crispy and gooey. Serve them with a side of ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, and they’ll be the star of any snack table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in an oven or air fryer to keep the coating crispy.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead of time, you can freeze the breaded mozzarella sticks before frying them. Lay them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to fry, cook them directly from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the frying time.

Reheating

To reheat leftover mozzarella sticks, place them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I make these mozzarella sticks in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry them! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the mozzarella sticks for about 6-8 minutes, or until crispy and golden.

2. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack, but mozzarella gives the best melt.

3. Can I make these mozzarella sticks ahead of time?

You can bread the sticks ahead of time and freeze them for later use. Just fry them when you’re ready to eat.

4. What oil is best for frying?

Use an oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil or canola oil, to ensure the sticks fry properly without burning.

5. How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out?

Ensure the mozzarella sticks are cold before frying and avoid overcooking them. Freezing them for 15-30 minutes before frying can also help.

6. Can I bake these instead of frying them?

Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy.

7. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free flour substitute to make this recipe gluten-free.

8. Can I add more spice?

If you love extra heat, sprinkle some cayenne pepper or chili powder into the Cheeto crumbs for an added kick.

9. How can I keep them crispy if making in advance?

To keep the coating crispy, reheat the sticks in the oven rather than the microwave, which could make them soggy.

10. Can I dip these in something else besides ranch or blue cheese?

Absolutely! These mozzarella sticks would also pair well with marinara sauce, spicy mayo, or a tangy barbecue sauce.

Conclusion

Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate indulgence for cheese lovers and spice enthusiasts alike. The combination of crunchy Hot Cheetos and melty mozzarella creates a snack that’s bold, fun, and completely irresistible. Perfect for parties or just a fun snack, these mozzarella sticks are easy to make, and with the option to customize the spice level, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold, savory flavors. Enjoy them fresh, hot, and crispy, and don’t forget the dipping sauce!