Hot Cheetos Mozzarella Sticks

• 8 ounces mozzarella cheese sticks
• 1 cup crushed Hot Cheetos
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Vegetable oil for frying

Steps

1. 1 Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with crushed Hot Cheetos.
2. 2 Dip each mozzarella stick first in flour, shaking off excess, then into egg, allowing excess to drip off, and finally coat thoroughly with crushed Hot Cheetos.
3. 3 Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. 4 Fry coated mozzarella sticks in batches for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, turning occasionally.
5. 5 Drain on paper towels.
6. 6 Serve immediately with your favorite marinara sauce.

Equipment

• Deep skillet or fryer
• Slotted spoon
• Paper towels

Variations

• Experiment with different cheese fillings like pepper jack for an extra kick.

Substitutions

• If Hot Cheetos are unavailable, use crushed spicy tortilla chips as a substitute.

Pairings

• Serve with a side of ranch dressing or spicy mayo for dipping.

Nutrition

Tips

• For extra crunch, double-coat the mozzarella sticks with Cheetos.
• Keep an eye on the oil temperature to avoid burning the coating.

Storage

Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 hours.

Freezing: These do not freeze well due to the moisture in the cheese.

Serving Suggestions

• Perfect for game day with a cold beer or a zesty marinara sauce on the side.

FAQ