Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks (Print Version)
Fiery mozzarella sticks crusted in Hot Cheetos, baked or fried, ideal for sharing with favorite dips.
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
8.5 ounces flaming hot Cheetos, crushed (yielding approximately 3 cups of crumbs)
02 -
12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half
→ Breading Station
03 -
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
04 -
1 teaspoon kosher salt
05 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
06 -
4 large eggs, room temperature
→ Finishing & Serving
07 -
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
08 -
Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping
# Steps:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F or heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy pan.
02 -
Arrange three bowls: combine flour, kosher salt, and garlic powder in the first bowl; whisk eggs in the second bowl; place crushed Cheeto crumbs in the third bowl.
03 -
Individually coat each halved cheese stick in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg wash, followed by an even coating of crushed Hot Cheetos.
04 -
For baking, place coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden and crisp. For frying, lower coated sticks into hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
05 -
Transfer hot mozzarella sticks to a serving platter, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.
# Notes:
01 -
For best results, freeze coated mozzarella sticks for 30 minutes before baking or frying to prevent cheese from oozing during cooking.