These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are a gooey appetizer guaranteed to give any party a fiery kick!
One of my favorite appetizers is mozzarella sticks. Realizing that I could make these babies at home was mind-blowing, but realizing I could customize them into something beyond the standard bar food was even better. Enter the Cheeto mozzarella sticks!
The first time I served these, I offered two varieties: one made with regular Cheetos and the other made with Flamin’ Hot Cheetos. I did this mostly because I am a coward when it comes to anything that might be spicy, though I have gotten a lot better! The regular sticks were enjoyable, but the hot version was definitely more interesting. The real test for these was when my spouse got to try them, as he loves both spicy food and mozzarella sticks. It was an instant hit! Though he did dip them in hot sauce as well, which seemed a bit much to me.
You’ll love this recipe because it’s a unique twist on the traditional mozzarella stick. It’s got that spicy kick plus that gooey cheese center that mozzarella sticks are known for, creating a really satisfying and borderline addictive snack or appetizer. The seasoning on traditional mozzarella sticks can be a little bit lackluster sometimes, and this recipe for sure fixes that! They’re particularly good at events like potlucks or Super Bowl parties!
On freezing mozzarella sticks
You may be wondering why you have to freeze the mozzarella sticks before and after breading. Basically, freezing the sticks for one hour before breading helps the cheese firm up. This ensures that it won’t melt and become a gooey mess while baking or frying. Freezing again after breading, on the other hand, helps the breading fully set and adhere to the cheese. It may seem like a simple set, but it’s definitely an important one when it comes to perfect mozzarella sticks that are crisp on the outside and delectably gooey on the inside.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover mozzarella sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the sticks at 375°F for 3 to 5 minutes. They can also be frozen (preferably unbaked) for up to 3 months. In that case, simply bake as directed.
Serving suggestions
I usually like to serve crispy mozzarella sticks with Marinara Sauce for dipping. Other options include Homemade Ranch Dressing or even something with a bit of kick, like a Ranchero Sauce if you like spicy sauce with your spicy food! If you’re looking for appetizers to serve next to this dish at a game-day party, I recommend Loaded Nachos.
Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks
Ingredients
- 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 2 cups Flamin’ Hot Cheetos finely crushed
- Preferred dipping sauce for serving
Instructions
- Unwrap the mozzarella sticks and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze for at least 60 minutes.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with the crushed Cheetos.
- Dredge each frozen mozzarella stick in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then roll in the crushed Cheetos, pressing gently to adhere. For a thicker coating, repeat the egg and Cheetos steps.
- Place the coated mozzarella sticks back into the freezer for 15 minutes to set.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Bake for 7 to 10 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent the cheese from oozing out. Serve with your preferred dipping sauce.
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