Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks: The Ultimate Snack Recipe

Ingredients

• 12 sticks mozzarella sticks
• 2 cups crushed Hot Cheetos
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• as needed oil vegetable oil (for frying)
• optional Ranch or marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

1. Start by placing the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for about 30 minutes to firm up.
2. Prepare your breading station: In one bowl, put the all-purpose flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs with the milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a third bowl, place the crushed Hot Cheetos.
3. Take the frozen mozzarella sticks out of the freezer. Dip each stick into the flour, ensuring it's fully coated, then shake off any excess.
4. Dip the flour-coated mozzarella stick into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off before moving to the Hot Cheetos bowl. Press the stick into the crushed Hot Cheetos to create a thick coating.
5. Repeat the process for all mozzarella sticks, then place them back in the freezer for an additional 15 minutes.
6. While the sticks are chilling, heat a deep skillet or frying pan with about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
7. Once the oil is hot (around 350°F or 175°C), carefully add the breaded mozzarella sticks in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry them for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
8. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
9. Serve immediately with ranch or marinara sauce for dipping.