Cheesy Doritos Mozzarella Sticks are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic mozzarella stick. They’re coated in crushed Doritos for an extra crunch and a burst of cheesy flavor. These make for an irresistible snack or appetizer that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!
Ingredients:
- 12 mozzarella sticks (string cheese)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 2 cups crushed Doritos (cheddar or nacho cheese flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
- Prep the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Place the mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while frying.
- Set Up the Breading Station:
- In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
- In a second shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and water.
- In a third shallow bowl, combine the crushed Doritos, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Dredge each mozzarella stick in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the floured stick into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Roll the stick in the Doritos mixture, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.
- Double Coat for Extra Crunch:
- For an extra crispy coating, repeat the dipping process: coat the stick in the egg mixture again and then roll it in the Doritos mixture.
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). You can test the oil by dropping a small piece of bread in; it should sizzle and brown in about 30 seconds.
- Fry the Mozzarella Sticks:
- Carefully place the coated mozzarella sticks in the hot oil, a few at a time, to avoid overcrowding. Fry for about 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the sticks from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cheesy Doritos Mozzarella Sticks hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or a spicy cheese dip.
Benefits:
- Cheese: Mozzarella provides calcium and protein, which support bone health and muscle function.
- Doritos Coating: Adds a fun and crunchy texture with a cheesy flavor, making these sticks a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Quick Snack: They’re easy to prepare and make for a satisfying treat or appetizer.
Tips:
- Keep the Cheese Frozen: For best results, make sure the mozzarella sticks are well-chilled or slightly frozen before frying to prevent them from melting too quickly.
- Dipping Sauce Ideas: Try pairing with different sauces like a spicy sriracha mayo, creamy blue cheese, or a tangy barbecue sauce for a variety of flavors.
- Baking Option: For a less greasy alternative, you can bake the mozzarella sticks. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the breaded sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Variations
- Flavored Doritos:
- Experiment with different flavors of Doritos for unique twists. Try Cool Ranch Doritos for a tangy variation or Spicy Sweet Chili Doritos for a bit of heat.
- Stuffed Mozzarella Sticks:
- For an extra surprise, stuff the mozzarella sticks with ingredients like pepperoni, jalapeños, or even a small piece of ham before breading and frying.
- Gluten-Free Option:
- Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free Doritos (if available) to make these sticks suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Baked Version:
- To make these sticks healthier, you can bake them instead of frying. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until crispy and golden brown.
Nutritional Considerations
- Caloric Content:
- Mozzarella sticks are typically high in calories, especially when fried. Each stick can contain around 100-150 calories, depending on the size and amount of cheese used.
- Fat Content:
- The combination of cheese, eggs, and the frying process increases the fat content. If you’re watching your fat intake, consider baking the sticks or using less cheese and oil.
- Protein:
- Mozzarella sticks provide a good source of protein from the cheese, which supports muscle health and can help keep you full.
- Sodium:
- Both cheese and Doritos are high in sodium, so this dish should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re monitoring your salt intake.
Serving Ideas
- Party Platter:
- Arrange the Cheesy Doritos Mozzarella Sticks on a platter with an assortment of dipping sauces. Consider adding a variety of sauces such as marinara, garlic aioli, or a spicy ranch.
- Game Day Snack:
- These sticks are perfect for game day or casual gatherings. Serve with other finger foods like sliders, nachos, or buffalo wings.
- Kids’ Menu:
- Serve these sticks as part of a kid-friendly meal. Pair them with a side of vegetables and a dipping sauce to balance the meal.
- Creative Dips:
- For a fun twist, try dipping the sticks in different sauces. A cheesy queso dip or a spicy sriracha mayo can complement the Doritos coating well.
Tips for Perfect Mozzarella Sticks
- Prevent Cheese Leakage:
- Ensure the mozzarella sticks are well-chilled or slightly frozen before frying. This helps prevent the cheese from melting out during cooking.
- Proper Oil Temperature:
- Maintaining the correct oil temperature (around 350°F or 175°C) is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior without overcooking the cheese inside. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature.
- Batch Cooking:
- Fry the mozzarella sticks in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and result in soggy sticks.
- Resting Time:
- After frying, let the mozzarella sticks rest on a paper towel-lined plate for a minute or two. This helps to remove excess oil and allows the coating to set.
By incorporating these variations and tips, you can customize the Cheesy Doritos Mozzarella Sticks to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and serving ideas! If you need more specific details or have other questions, just let me know
Enjoy your cheesy, crunchy treat! If you have any specific preferences or need additional tips, feel free to ask.