Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks

There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a crispy, golden shell and revealing the gooey, melted mozzarella inside. These Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks take that classic snack to the next level by coating each cheese stick in a bold, crunchy layer of crushed Doritos. The result? A snack that’s packed with flavor, texture, and the perfect amount of crunch.

The Ultimate Crunchy Mozzarella Sticks

Traditional mozzarella sticks are already a crowd favorite, but adding Doritos to the mix makes them even more irresistible. The chips not only provide a crispy, flavorful crust but also bring a fun, spicy, or cheesy twist depending on which Doritos flavor you choose. Whether you go for classic nacho cheese, spicy chili, or a tangy ranch variety, each bite bursts with intense taste and crunchy goodness.

These mozzarella sticks are perfect for game nights, parties, or just indulging in a delicious snack at home. Plus, they’re easy to make with simple ingredients, requiring just a few steps to get that perfect golden crunch. By freezing the coated cheese sticks before frying, you ensure they hold their shape and don’t melt too quickly in the hot oil

Ingredients for Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks

To achieve the perfect balance of crunch and gooey cheese, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Each component plays a key role in creating that crispy, flavorful crust while ensuring the cheese stays intact during frying.

Main Ingredients:

• Mozzarella Cheese Sticks – The star of the dish! Use full-fat mozzarella sticks for the best melty, stretchy cheese pull.
• Crushed Doritos – Any flavor works, so pick your favorite. Nacho cheese, spicy chili, or cool ranch all add a unique crunch and seasoning to the coating.
• All-Purpose Flour – Helps the egg stick to the mozzarella, creating a strong base for the coating.
• Eggs – Acts as the binding agent to ensure the Doritos crumbs and breadcrumbs adhere properly.
• Breadcrumbs – Adds extra crunch to the coating, making the mozzarella sticks even crispier.
• Vegetable Oil – Used for deep frying, ensuring an even golden-brown crust.

How to Make Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks

Creating these crispy, cheesy bites is simple, but following the right steps is crucial to get that perfect texture. Here’s how you can make them at home:

Step 1: Prepare the Coating Stations

Set up three shallow dishes. Place the crushed Doritos in one dish, the flour in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.

Step 2: Coat the Mozzarella Sticks

Take each mozzarella stick and roll it in flour, making sure it’s evenly coated. Shake off any excess flour. Next, dip it into the whisked eggs, ensuring the entire stick is covered. Then, roll it in the crushed Doritos, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.

Step 3: Double Coat for Extra Crunch

For an extra crispy texture, repeat the egg and Doritos coating process. This second layer adds more crunch and ensures the cheese stays enclosed while frying.

Step 4: Freeze to Set the Coating

Place the coated mozzarella sticks on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for at least 30 minutes. This step is essential—it prevents the cheese from melting too quickly when frying.

Step 5: Heat the Oil

In a deep fryer or large pan, heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, test the oil by dropping in a small piece of Doritos crumbs—if it sizzles immediately, the oil is ready.

Step 6: Fry the Mozzarella Sticks

Carefully drop a few mozzarella sticks into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the mozzarella sticks hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Marinara, ranch, or a spicy aioli pairs perfectly with the crispy Doritos crust.

How Long to Fry Mozzarella Sticks

The key to perfectly fried mozzarella sticks is achieving a crispy, golden crust without letting the cheese melt too quickly. Here’s a guide to ensure they turn out just right:

• Frozen Mozzarella Sticks: Fry for 1-2 minutes per side at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown.
• Partially Frozen Mozzarella Sticks: Fry for 1 minute per side to avoid over-melting.
• Non-Frozen Mozzarella Sticks: Avoid frying immediately after coating. Freezing prevents the cheese from leaking out too quickly.

Keep a close eye while frying, as overcooking can cause the cheese to burst out of the coating. A golden-brown color is the perfect indicator that they’re done.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover Doritos encrusted mozzarella sticks, they can be stored and reheated for later snacking. Follow these tips to maintain their crispiness:

Refrigerator Storage:

• Place the cooled mozzarella sticks in an airtight container or wrap them in foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes or air fryer for 3-5 minutes for the best crispiness. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the coating soft.

Freezer Storage:

• Arrange leftover fried mozzarella sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store for up to 1 month.
• Reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks

Making these cheesy bites is simple, but these tips will help you get the best texture, crunch, and gooey cheese pull every time:

1. Freeze Before Frying

Skipping the freezing step can result in mozzarella sticks that break open too quickly. Always freeze for at least 30 minutes before frying to keep the cheese intact.

2. Double-Coat for Extra Crunch

For an even crispier texture, double-dip the mozzarella sticks in egg and crushed Doritos before freezing. This ensures a thicker, crunchier coating.

3. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

When frying, work in small batches to maintain the oil temperature. Overcrowding lowers the oil temperature, making the coating soggy instead of crispy.

4. Choose the Right Doritos Flavor

The flavor of Doritos you choose makes a big difference. Try:

• Nacho Cheese for a classic, cheesy crunch
• Spicy Sweet Chili for a hint of heat
• Cool Ranch for a tangy, creamy flavor twist

5. Use a Thermometer for the Oil

Maintaining an oil temperature of 375°F (190°C) ensures an even, crispy fry. If the oil is too cool, the sticks will absorb too much oil and become greasy. If too hot, the crust will burn before the cheese melts properly.

6. Pair with the Perfect Dipping Sauce

The right dipping sauce makes all the difference. Serve your mozzarella sticks with:

• Marinara sauce for a classic Italian-style pairing
• Spicy ranch or sriracha mayo for a zesty kick
• Garlic aioli for a creamy, flavorful contrast

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I bake these mozzarella sticks instead of frying?

Yes! If you prefer a healthier alternative, you can bake them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated mozzarella sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray them with cooking oil to enhance crispiness. Bake for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent the cheese from melting too quickly.

2. What’s the best way to crush the Doritos for coating?

The best method is to place the Doritos in a sealed plastic bag and crush them using a rolling pin until they reach a fine, crumb-like consistency. Alternatively, you can use a food processor for a quicker and more uniform crumb texture. Just be careful not to over-process them into a powder—you still want a bit of texture for extra crunch!

3. Can I make these mozzarella sticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can fully prepare and coat the mozzarella sticks in advance. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze them for at least 30 minutes. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. When ready to fry, you can cook them directly from frozen—just add an extra 30 seconds to the frying time.

4. What dipping sauces go best with Doritos encrusted mozzarella sticks?

The bold flavors of the Doritos crust pair well with a variety of dips. Some great options include:

• Classic marinara sauce – The tangy tomato balances the rich cheese.
• Spicy ranch or chipotle mayo – Adds a creamy, smoky kick.
• Buffalo sauce – A perfect spicy contrast to the cheesy flavor.
• Garlic aioli – A smooth, garlicky dip for a more gourmet touch.