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Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 62 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes plus freezing time
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are a spicy and crunchy twist on the classic fried cheese sticks, featuring mozzarella wrapped in a crispy Hot Cheetos coating. Perfect as a bold appetizer or snack, these sticks offer a vibrant color and a flavorful kick with a satisfying cheesy center. Serve them hot with your choice of ranch or marinara sauce for dipping.

Ingredients

Cheese Sticks

  • 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks

Coating

  • 2 cups Hot Cheetos, crushed finely
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

For Frying

  • Vegetable oil, for frying

Optional

  • Ranch or marinara sauce, for serving

Instructions

  1. Freeze the Mozzarella Sticks: Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze for at least 1 hour until very firm, which is necessary to keep the cheese from melting too quickly during frying.
  2. Prepare the Coatings: Place the flour in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk to create an egg wash. In a third bowl, combine the crushed Hot Cheetos, garlic powder, and paprika for a flavorful, spicy crust.
  3. Coat the Cheese Sticks: Remove the frozen mozzarella sticks from the freezer. Dredge each stick in the flour, shaking off excess. Dip it into the egg wash, then coat thoroughly in the Hot Cheeto crumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure good adhesion. For an extra crunchy crust, repeat the egg wash and Hot Cheeto coating once more on each stick.
  4. Freeze Again: Place the double-coated mozzarella sticks back into the freezer for 30 minutes to firm up before frying. This step helps the coating stay intact during cooking.
  5. Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (177°C), ensuring it’s hot enough for frying but not too hot to burn the coating.
  6. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks: Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches for 1 to 2 minutes, or until the exterior is bright red and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain oil temperature and even cooking.
  7. Drain and Serve: Remove the sticks from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately with optional ranch or marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

  • Freezing the cheese sticks before and after coating is essential to prevent the cheese from leaking out during frying.
  • For a healthier option, these mozzarella sticks can be air-fried at 390°F for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  • Use freshly crushed Hot Cheetos for the best texture and flavor.
  • Be careful to maintain consistent oil temperature to avoid soggy or burnt coatings.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/hot-cheeto-mozzarella-sticks-recipe/