Crispy, spicy, and cheesy — these Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate snack for heat lovers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crunchy, fiery coating with melty cheese inside.

• Perfect for game day, parties, or casual snacking.

• Quick to prepare and fun to serve.

• Easy to bake or fry depending on preference.

• Pairs perfectly with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Ingredients

• 8.5 ounces Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, crushed (about 3 cups crumbs)

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks, cut in half

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

• Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for dipping

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 24 mozzarella sticks

Directions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep fryer or heavy pan.

Step 2

Set up three bowls: seasoned flour (flour, salt, garlic powder) in the first; whisked eggs in the second; crushed Hot Cheetos in the third.

Step 3

Coat each cheese stick in seasoned flour, then dip in eggs, then coat in Cheeto crumbs.

Step 4

For baking, place on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake 8–10 minutes until crisp. For frying, cook 2–3 minutes until golden.

Step 5

Garnish with parsley and serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the sticks and coat them in Cheetos ahead of time, then refrigerate for up to 2 hours before cooking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Mozzarella sticks are ideal for melting, but string cheese or halloumi slices can be alternatives.

Are baking and frying both equally good?

Baking is slightly less crispy but healthier; frying gives maximum crunch.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, use regular Cheetos or mix Flamin’ Hot with regular crumbs for less heat.

Final Thoughts

Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are a fiery, cheesy snack that’s crunchy, gooey, and irresistible. Perfect for parties, game days, or satisfying a spicy craving!