Description
Get ready for a spicy, crunchy twist on a classic snack! These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are coated with a fiery crust of crushed Flaming Hot Cheetos, giving you that irresistible combination of heat and cheesy goodness. Perfect for game day or as a fun appetizer!
Ingredients
- 1 bag (8.5 ounces / 6 cups) Flaming Hot Cheetos, crushed (about 3 cups)
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (62.5 g)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cheetos Coating:
In a food processor, crush the Flaming Hot Cheetos until fine crumbs form. Transfer the crushed Cheetos to a shallow bowl and set aside. -
Prepare the Dredging Station:
In another shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and garlic powder. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. -
Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
Dip each mozzarella stick first in the flour mixture, coating it completely. Next, dip it in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s well-coated. Finally, roll the mozzarella stick in the crushed Cheetos, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. Repeat for all mozzarella sticks. -
Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks:
Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the mozzarella sticks for at least 1 hour, or until they are firm. This helps prevent the cheese from melting too quickly during frying. -
Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
Heat oil in a deep fryer or a large skillet to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. -
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the fried mozzarella sticks with chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Notes
- Freezing Tip: Be sure to freeze the mozzarella sticks before frying to avoid the cheese spilling out while cooking.
- Adjust Spice Level: If you want a milder version, you can substitute regular Cheetos for Flaming Hot Cheetos.
- Air Fryer: These mozzarella sticks can also be cooked in an air fryer at 375°F for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a slightly healthier alternative.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour freezing time)
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Keywords: Hot Cheeto mozzarella sticks, cheesy snacks, spicy mozzarella sticks, Cheetos snacks, fried mozzarella sticks