The Best Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks
These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks combine spicy, crunchy Hot Cheetos crumbs with melted mozzarella cheese for a bold and delicious snack. Perfect for game days, parties, or anytime you crave a crispy, cheesy treat.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 8
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 12
Ingredients
- Mozzarella sticks (fresh, string cheese style) – 12 sticks
- Hot Cheetos (crushed finely) – 2 cups
- All-purpose flour – 1 cup
- Eggs – 2 large, beaten
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Optional: garlic powder – ½ teaspoon
- Optional: paprika – ½ teaspoon
- Vegetable oil – for frying
Instructions
- Crush Hot Cheetos into fine crumbs using a rolling pin or food processor. Set aside in a shallow bowl.
- In a second bowl, mix flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if using.
- Beat eggs in a third bowl until smooth.
- Lightly coat each mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip floured stick into the beaten eggs, then roll in crushed Hot Cheetos, pressing crumbs gently to adhere.
- Repeat the egg and crumb coating for a thicker crust.
- Place coated sticks on parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pan or fryer.
- Fry sticks in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Avoid overcrowding.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
- Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.
Notes
Freezing before frying prevents cheese from leaking.
Adjust spice by mixing Hot Cheetos with milder crumbs.
Baking is a healthier alternative: bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes until crispy.
Use firm, fresh mozzarella sticks for best results.