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Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes + 30 min freezing
  • Yield: 12 mozzarella sticks 1x
  • Category: Appetizer, Snack
  • Method: Deep Frying (with baking & air fryer options)
  • Cuisine: American

Description

These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate snack—crispy, fiery, and filled with gooey melted cheese. Made with crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, they deliver a bold crunch and a spicy kick. Perfect for game nights, parties, or anytime you crave something indulgent!


Ingredients

Scale
  • Mozzarella Sticks (String Cheese): 12 pieces
  • Flamin’ Hot Cheetos: 3 cups, crushed into fine crumbs
  • All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
  • Eggs: 2 large
  • Milk: 1/4 cup
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Vegetable or Canola Oil: For frying

Instructions

  1. Prep the Coating:

    • Crush the Hot Cheetos using a food processor or place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin until fine.
    • Mix the crushed Cheetos with garlic powder and paprika.
  2. Set Up the Breading Station:

    • Bowl 1: Add flour.
    • Bowl 2: Whisk together eggs and milk.
    • Bowl 3: Add crushed Hot Cheetos mixture.
  3. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:

    • Roll each mozzarella stick in flour.
    • Dip into the egg mixture.
    • Coat with the Hot Cheeto crumbs.
    • Repeat the egg and Hot Cheeto coating for an extra crispy layer.
  4. Freeze Before Frying:

    • Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from melting too quickly.
  5. Fry to Perfection:

    • Heat oil to 375°F in a deep pan.
    • Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches for 30-45 seconds, or until crispy and golden.
    • Drain on paper towels.
  • Serve Immediately:

    • Enjoy hot with ranch, marinara, or your favorite dipping sauce!

Notes

  • Double Coating: Repeating the egg and Hot Cheeto layer makes them extra crispy.
  • Freezing is Essential: Skipping this step can cause the cheese to melt too fast while frying.
  • Oil Temperature: Keep oil at 375°F for perfect crispiness.

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~180 kcal
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Protein: 7g