Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks

These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are a fiery, cheesy Spicy Party Snack that transforms classic mozzarella sticks with a Flamin’ Hot Cheeto coating. Crispy, gooey, and packed with a spicy kick, they’re perfect for game nights, parties, or any time you crave bold flavors. Born from a college dare, this addictive snack delivers crunchy texture and stretchy cheese in every bite.

My roommate’s giant bag of Hot Cheetos sparked this recipe, and it quickly became our apartment’s most requested treat. Now, it’s a legend at every gathering, stealing the show with its vibrant heat and melty cheese.

Why You’ll Love These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks

These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks are the ultimate Spicy Party Snack:

• Bold Flavors: Spicy Cheetos elevate traditional mozzarella sticks.
• Party Hit: Disappear fast at gatherings, sparking recipe requests.
• Easy Swap: Uses pantry snacks for a gourmet twist.
• Quick Prep: Simple steps for a crowd-pleasing treat.
• Addictive: Crunchy coating and gooey cheese keep you coming back.
• I brought these to a Super Bowl watch party, and guests ignored the game to ask for the recipe!

Ingredients for Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks

Here’s what you’ll need for Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks (makes 12 sticks):

• 12 mozzarella string cheese sticks
• 3 cups Flamin’ Hot Cheetos (one 8.5 oz bag)
• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• Cooking spray

Ingredient Tips:

• Cheetos: Flamin’ Hot for spicy crunch; crush finely but not to powder.
• Cheese Sticks: High-quality mozzarella melts creamier than budget brands.
• Flour: All-purpose creates a sticky base for coating.
• Eggs: Room temperature ensures smooth, even coating.
• Garlic Powder: Adds savory depth to balance the heat.

Directions for Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks

1. Let’s make these irresistible Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks!

Crush Cheetos

1. I pulse 3 cups Flamin’ Hot Cheetos in a food processor until fine crumbs form, keeping some texture for crunch. Alternatively,
2. I crush them in a sealed bag with a rolling pin.

Set Up Coating Station

1. I prepare three shallow bowls: one with ¾ cup flour, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ½ tsp salt mixed well; one with 2 whisked eggs; and one with the Cheeto crumbs spread evenly.

Double Coat Sticks

1. I roll each of 12 cheese sticks in the flour mixture, coating fully. I dip it in the eggs, letting excess drip off, then roll in Cheeto crumbs, pressing gently.
2. I repeat the egg and Cheeto steps for a thick, sturdy coating.

Freeze Sticks

I arrange coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they don’t touch, and freeze for at least 1 hour to prevent cheese leakage during cooking.

Air Fry Sticks

1. I preheat the air fryer to 390°F. I lightly spray the frozen sticks with cooking spray and place them in the basket without crowding, cooking in batches if needed.
2. I air fry for 4–6 minutes, checking at 4 minutes, until golden and crispy.

Serve Hot

1. I let the sticks cool for 1–2 minutes to avoid burning tongues, then serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat.

Nutrition

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 minutes
• Total Time: 21 minutes
• Servings: 24 sticks
• Calories: ~180 kcal per stick
• Macros per Serving: 12g carbs, 8g protein, 10g fat, 1g fiber

Variations for Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks

Try these twists on Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks:

• Milder Coating: Use regular Cheetos or mix with Flamin’ Hot for less spice.
• Spicier Kick: Swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese sticks.
• Different Crunch: Crush Doritos or Takis for a unique flavor profile.
• Stuffed Heat: Add a small jalapeño slice inside the cheese before coating.
• Baked Option: Bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, for a crispy alternative.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve with ranch or blue cheese as a Spicy Party Snack for dipping.
• Pair with celery sticks and carrots to cool the heat.
• Enjoy with a cold beer or iced tea for a perfect match.

Storage

I store leftover Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days, reheating in the air fryer at 390°F for 1–2 minutes to restore crispiness. I freeze uncooked, coated sticks for up to 1 month, cooking straight from frozen with an extra 1–2 minutes. Freezing cooked sticks may make the coating soggy.

FAQs About Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks

Can I bake Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks instead of air frying?
Yes, I bake at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, though air frying is crispier.

Why freeze them before cooking this Spicy Party Snack?
I freeze to keep the cheese from melting out, ensuring a perfect cheese pull.

Can I use regular Cheetos?
I can, but the spicy kick of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos makes this Spicy Party Snack unique.

How long do they stay crispy?
I serve them fresh for maximum crunch; reheat in the air fryer to revive crispiness.

What’s the best dipping sauce for Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks?
I love ranch or blue cheese to cool the heat, or spicy mayo for extra zing.

More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love

• Caprese Skewers – A Simple Appetizer Everyone Will Love
• Keto Pepperoni Cheese Crisps
• Crispy Parmesan Fried Tortellini
• Steak Crostini Recipe

Conclusion

These Hot Cheeto Mozzarella Sticks turn a classic snack into a bold, cheesy Spicy Party Snack that’s sure to impress. Easy to make and impossible to resist, they’re perfect for parties or indulgent cravings. With their crunchy, fiery coating and gooey cheese, these sticks are a fun, flavorful treat I keep coming back to.