Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks

Introduction:

If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful twist on a classic appetizer, these Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks are perfect! Coated in crushed Doritos for an extra crunchy exterior, these mozzarella sticks are a savory snack or party treat that’s sure to please.

Ingredients

• 1 cup crushed Doritos (any flavor)
• 8 sticks of mozzarella cheese
• 2 eggs, whisked
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• Vegetable oil for frying

Directions

1. Prepare the Coatings:
   • Place the crushed Doritos in one shallow dish.
   • Put the flour in a second shallow dish.
   • Beat the eggs in a separate dish.
2. Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
   • Roll each mozzarella stick in the flour, shaking off any excess.
   • Dip the floured mozzarella stick in the beaten eggs, then roll it in the crushed Doritos.
   • For an extra crunchy coating, repeat the egg and Doritos coating.
3. Freeze the Coated Sticks:
   • Arrange the coated mozzarella sticks on a plate and freeze them for at least 30 minutes to set the coating.
4. Heat the Oil:
   • Heat vegetable oil to 375°F (190°C) in a deep fryer or large pan.
5. Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
   • Fry the mozzarella sticks in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side.
   • Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried cheese sticks to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
6. Serve:
   • Serve the Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: Makes approximately 8 mozzarella sticks.
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Freeze Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 5-10 minutes (1-2 minutes per batch)
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

• Flavored Doritos: Experiment with different Doritos flavors like Cool Ranch or Spicy Nacho for a unique twist.
• Additional Spices: Add spices like paprika or garlic powder to the flour or Doritos for extra flavor.
• Baking Option: For a healthier version, bake the coated mozzarella sticks at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover mozzarella sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until crispy. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it can make them soggy.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese? Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar or Monterey Jack, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
2. What kind of oil is best for frying? Vegetable oil is a good choice for frying, but you can also use canola oil or peanut oil.
3. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare and freeze the coated mozzarella sticks ahead of time. Just fry them when you’re ready to serve.
4. Can I bake these instead of frying? Yes, baking is an option for a healthier version. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-15 minutes.
5. How can I make the coating extra crunchy? For extra crunch, double coat the mozzarella sticks by repeating the egg and Doritos coating steps.
6. What dipping sauces go well with these? Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli are great options.
7. Can I use homemade breadcrumbs instead of Doritos? Yes, you can use homemade or store-bought breadcrumbs, but the flavor and texture will be different.
8. What if the cheese starts to ooze out while frying? Ensure the mozzarella sticks are well-coated and properly frozen. Overcrowding the pan can also cause this issue.
9. How do I know when the oil is hot enough? Use a deep-fry thermometer to ensure the oil reaches 375°F (190°C). Alternatively, you can test by dropping a small piece of bread into the oil; it should sizzle and turn golden brown.
10. Can I use a different type of pan for frying? A deep fryer is ideal, but you can also use a large skillet or saucepan as long as it has enough depth for frying.

Conclusion

Cheesy Doritos Encrusted Mozzarella Sticks offer a crispy and flavorful twist on a classic snack. With their Doritos coating and gooey mozzarella center, they make an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a fun party snack, these mozzarella sticks are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Enjoy the crunchy, cheesy goodness!

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