The Crunchiest Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

Crispy, golden, and irresistibly cheesy Doritos encrusted mozzarella sticks promise a snack that breaks all the rules of traditional appetizers.

Crunchy Doritos add an unexpected twist to classic mozzarella sticks, creating a texture that will make taste buds dance.

The coating delivers a bold, zesty crunch that sets these mozzarella sticks apart from ordinary bar fare.

Each bite combines the gooey, melted cheese interior with a crunchy, chip-crusted exterior that screams indulgence.

These sticks work perfectly as a party snack or late-night treat for anyone seeking a seriously addictive finger food.

The combination of crisp Doritos and stretchy mozzarella creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone reaching for more.

Prepare to elevate your snack game with this crowd-pleasing recipe that turns a simple appetizer into a mouth-watering sensation.

Cheesy Doritos Mozzarella Sticks: Why They’re a Party Hit

• Transform classic mozzarella sticks into a crunchy, flavor-packed treat that elevates your appetizer experience with a spicy Doritos twist.
• Impress friends and family with this unique recipe that combines the cheesy goodness of mozzarella sticks with the bold flavors of crushed Doritos.
• Learn an easy double-coating method that guarantees a super crispy exterior and gooey, melted cheese interior, perfect for any gathering or game day.
• Experiment with different Doritos flavors to create your own signature mozzarella stick version, making each batch a delicious culinary experiment.

What Goes Into Doritos Mozzarella Sticks

• Mozzarella Sticks: Soft and stretchy cheese that provides the creamy center of the recipe.
• Doritos: Crunchy corn chips that create a bold and zesty exterior coating for the cheese.

• Flour, Breadcrumbs, Eggs: These ingredients help create a secure and crispy layer that adheres to the cheese.

• Vegetable Oil: Neutral oil used for deep frying to achieve a golden and crispy exterior.

• Dipping Sauce: A complementary condiment to enhance the flavor of the mozzarella sticks.

Tools for Crispy Doritos Mozzarella Sticks

• Deep Fryer or Large Pan: Essential for heating oil to the perfect frying temperature.
• Shallow Dishes (3): Perfect for creating separate coating stations with flour, eggs, and crushed Doritos.
• Slotted Spoon: Helps remove mozzarella sticks from hot oil safely and drain excess oil.
• Plate: Used for freezing coated cheese sticks and draining fried sticks.
• Paper Towels: Absorbs extra oil after frying, keeping the sticks crispy.
• Whisk: Helps beat eggs thoroughly for smooth coating.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient measurements.

How to Make Doritos-Crusted Mozzarella Sticks

Step 1: Prepare Coating Zones

Create three shallow dishes for your coating adventure.

In the first dish, crush Doritos into fine, zesty crumbs.

In the second dish, sprinkle flour.

In the third dish, spread breadcrumbs.

Whisk eggs in a separate bowl for the ultimate cheese stick transformation.

Step 2: First Flavor Wrap

Gently roll each mozzarella stick through flour, tapping off any excess.

Dive the floured stick into whisked eggs, then roll generously in crushed Doritos, ensuring a complete flavor coverage.

Step 3: Double Crunch Technique

For maximum crispiness, repeat the egg bath and Doritos coating.

This creates an extra-crunchy exterior that will make taste buds dance.

Step 4: Chill and Set

Arrange your coated cheese sticks on a plate.

Pop them into the freezer for a solid 30 minutes.

This helps the coating stick and prevents cheese from leaking during frying.

Step 5: Oil Preparation

Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pan until it reaches 375°F.

Use a cooking thermometer to ensure perfect temperature.

Step 6: Golden Frying

Carefully lower cheese sticks into hot oil, working in small batches.

Fry until they turn a gorgeous golden brown, approximately 1-2 minutes per side.

Watch closely to prevent burning.

Step 7: Drain Excess Oil

Transfer fried cheese bombs to a paper towel-lined plate.

Let excess oil drip away, maintaining that perfect crispy texture.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your Doritos-crusted mozzarella sticks immediately.

Pair with marinara sauce, ranch, or your favorite dipping companion for an irresistible snack.

Tips for Crunchy, Melty Mozzarella Sticks Every Time

• Use a food processor or rolling pin to create an even, fine texture for maximum coating coverage and crunch.
• Freeze mozzarella sticks before frying to help cheese stay inside the crispy coating and prevent melting too quickly.
• Maintain consistent 375F oil temperature to ensure golden exterior and perfectly melted cheese without burning.
• Repeat egg and Doritos dredging for extra thick, crunchy exterior that locks in cheesy goodness.
• Serve with ranch, marinara, or spicy salsa to complement the cheesy, zesty Doritos flavor profile.

Cheesy Mozzarella Stick Variations for Extra Fun

• Gluten-Free Crunchy Sticks: Replace flour with gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for celiac-friendly version.
• Spicy Nacho Edition: Mix crushed spicy Doritos with regular Doritos for an extra kick of heat and flavor.
• Vegetarian Protein Alternative: Substitute mozzarella with plant-based cheese stick for vegetarian guests, maintaining the same crispy coating technique.
• Low-Carb Cheese Bites: Use crushed pork rinds instead of Doritos and almond flour to create a keto-friendly cheese stick option with reduced carbohydrates.

Ways to Serve Cheesy Doritos Mozzarella Sticks

• Flavor Explosion Party Platter: Arrange these crispy mozzarella sticks on a large wooden board with multiple dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, and spicy salsa for a crowd-pleasing appetizer spread.
• Game Night Snack Attack: Pair these cheesy sticks with cold beer or soda during movie marathons, sports events, or casual gatherings with friends for ultimate comfort food experience.
• Teenage Crowd Pleaser: Kids and teens will love these crunchy, cheesy bites as an after-school snack or weekend treat that puts a fun twist on classic mozzarella sticks.
• Entertaining Hack: Prepare these in advance and freeze before frying, making them perfect for unexpected guests or quick entertaining solutions that look impressive.

Storing Mozzarella Sticks for Fresh Snacking

• Transfer cooled mozzarella sticks to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
• Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
• Preheat oven to 375F. Arrange sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway to restore crispiness. Avoid microwave to prevent soggy texture.

FAQs

• Why use Doritos for coating?

Doritos add a bold, zesty flavor and extra crunch that regular breadcrumbs can’t match. The nacho cheese flavor gives these mozzarella sticks a unique and exciting taste profile.

• Can I use different flavors of Doritos?

Absolutely! Cool Ranch, Spicy Nacho, or Salsa Verde Doritos can create totally different flavor experiences for your mozzarella sticks.

• How do I prevent the cheese from leaking during frying?

Freezing the coated mozzarella sticks for at least 30 minutes helps the coating set and prevents cheese from oozing out during frying. The double coating also creates a more secure barrier.

Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks Recipe

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4.6 from 36 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy homemade Doritos encrusted mozzarella sticks deliver a crunchy twist on classic appetizers. Zesty cheese and spicy chip coating create an irresistible snack that cheese enthusiasts will devour with pure delight.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese:

• 8 sticks of mozzarella cheese

Main Coating Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 ml) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240 ml) breadcrumbs
• 1 cup (240 ml) crushed Doritos (any flavor)

Binding Ingredients:

• 2 eggs, whisked
• Vegetable oil for frying

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Instructions

1. Prepare three separate shallow dishes: one with crushed Doritos, another with flour, and the third with breadcrumbs. Whisk eggs in a fourth dish for coating.
2. Thoroughly coat each mozzarella stick in flour, ensuring complete coverage and shaking off any excess.
3. Dunk the flour-coated cheese stick into whisked eggs, then roll generously in crushed Doritos for a vibrant, crunchy exterior.
4. For maximum crispiness, repeat the egg and Doritos coating process, creating a thick, flavorful crust.
5. Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks on a plate and place in the freezer for 30 minutes to solidify the coating and prevent cheese from leaking during frying.
6. Heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or large, heavy-bottomed pan, using a thermometer to ensure precise temperature.
7. Carefully lower mozzarella sticks into hot oil in small batches, avoiding overcrowding to maintain oil temperature and ensure even browning.
8. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side until the exterior turns a deep golden brown and becomes incredibly crisp.
9. Remove fried cheese sticks using a slotted spoon, transferring to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
10. Serve immediately while hot, paired with marinara sauce, ranch, or your preferred dipping condiment.

Notes

• Freeze Thoroughly: Ensure mozzarella sticks are completely frozen before frying to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking.
• Control Oil Temperature: Maintain consistent 375F oil to achieve crispy exterior without burning the Doritos coating.
• Choose Doritos Flavor: Experiment with different Doritos flavors like Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch for unique taste variations.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap flour for gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe celiac-friendly.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 12 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg