If you’re looking for the ultimate snack or party appetizer, these Fried Cheese-Stuffed Doritos are exactly what you need. With a crispy, boldly flavored Doritos crust and a gooey, melted cheese center, each bite is packed with crunch, creaminess, and irresistible flavor. Whether you’re hosting game night or simply treating yourself, these deep-fried delights are sure to steal the show.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This fun and indulgent recipe is a creative twist on classic mozzarella sticks, using crushed Doritos as the breading for a flavorful upgrade. The double-coating technique ensures maximum crunch, while a quick freeze helps maintain that perfect cheesy pull. They’re fast to fry, easy to customize, and a guaranteed hit for any crowd.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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mozzarella cheese sticks (or cheese cubes)
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crushed Doritos (Nacho Cheese or preferred flavor)
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all-purpose flour
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large eggs
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milk
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garlic powder
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paprika
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salt
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black pepper
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vegetable oil, for frying
Directions
1. Prep the Coating
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Crush Doritos into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin. Transfer to a shallow dish.
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In a second shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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In a third dish, whisk the eggs with the milk.
2. Coat the Cheese
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Dip each cheese stick into the flour mixture, coating all sides.
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Transfer to the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off.
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Roll the cheese in the crushed Doritos, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
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For a thicker crust, repeat the egg wash and Doritos coating once more.
3. Freeze to Prevent Melting
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Place the coated cheese sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Freeze for at least 30–45 minutes. This step helps the cheese hold its shape during frying.
4. Fry Until Crispy & Golden
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In a deep skillet or saucepan, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry 2–3 cheese sticks at a time for 30–45 seconds, or until the outside is golden and crisp.
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Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve & Enjoy
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Serve immediately while hot and gooey.
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Pair with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, marinara, or warm queso.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 12 fried cheese sticks.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Freeze Time: 30–45 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour
Variations
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Spicy Version: Use Spicy Nacho or Flamin’ Hot Doritos for a fiery kick.
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Cheese Options: Try different cheeses like pepper jack, cheddar, or gouda cubes for variety.
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Baked Alternative: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The texture will be less crispy but still tasty.
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Air Fryer Option: Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, turning halfway for even crispiness.
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Mini Bites: Use smaller cheese cubes to make bite-sized poppers.
storage/reheating
These fried cheese sticks are best served fresh. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until hot and crisp—avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy. For make-ahead prep, freeze the coated (uncooked) sticks for up to 1 month, then fry directly from frozen.
FAQs
Can I use other flavors of Doritos?
Yes, feel free to experiment with different flavors like Cool Ranch, Spicy Sweet Chili, or Flamin’ Hot for a unique twist.
Why do I need to freeze the cheese sticks?
Freezing prevents the cheese from melting too quickly during frying, helping them maintain shape and prevent leaks.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Coat and freeze the sticks ahead of time, then fry when ready to serve.
What kind of cheese works best?
Mozzarella is ideal for that classic stretchy melt, but cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack are great alternatives.
Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, although baking results in a softer texture. Bake at 425°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I get the Doritos to stick well?
Double coating with egg and crumbs helps create a sturdy, crispy crust.
Is it possible to air-fry these?
Yes, air fry at 375°F for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
No, pre-shredded cheese won’t work for this recipe. Use whole sticks or cubes of cheese.
What dips pair best with these?
Ranch dressing, marinara sauce, queso, or spicy mayo are all excellent choices.
Are these suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as the Doritos and cheese used contain no animal-derived rennet or flavoring.
Conclusion
Delicious Fried Cheese-Stuffed Doritos are the ultimate indulgence—crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor in every bite. Perfect as a party appetizer, game-day snack, or fun treat, they combine familiar comfort with a bold twist. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, they’ll quickly become a crowd favorite. Serve them hot, with plenty of dipping sauces, and watch them disappear fast.
Print
Delicious Fried Cheese-Stuffed Doritos
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 12 cheese bites
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These crispy, cheesy bites are coated in crushed Doritos and deep-fried to golden perfection with a gooey mozzarella center. Irresistibly bold and crunchy, they’re perfect for parties, game day, or anytime you’re feeling snacky!
Ingredients
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12 mozzarella cheese sticks (or cheese cubes)
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2 cups crushed Doritos (Nacho Cheese or preferred flavor)
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1 cup all-purpose flour
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2 large eggs
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2 tbsp milk
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1/2 tsp garlic powder
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1/2 tsp paprika
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1/4 tsp salt
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1/4 tsp black pepper
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Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions
1. Prep the Coating
Crush Doritos into fine crumbs using a food processor or ziplock + rolling pin.
In one shallow dish: mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
In another dish: whisk eggs with milk.
Pour crushed Doritos into a third dish.
2. Coat the Cheese
Dredge each cheese stick in the flour mixture.
Dip in egg wash, then coat in crushed Doritos.
For extra crunch, repeat egg wash and Doritos coating.
3. Freeze to Prevent Melting
Place coated cheese sticks on a baking sheet and freeze for 30–45 minutes.
4. Fry Until Crispy & Golden
Heat oil to 350°F (175°C).
Fry 2–3 sticks at a time for 30–45 seconds until golden brown.
Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve & Enjoy!
Serve hot with ranch, marinara, or queso dip.
Bite into cheesy, crunchy heaven!
Notes
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Freeze before frying to keep the cheese from leaking.
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Use Flamin’ Hot Doritos for an extra kick.
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Great with a variety of dips—try sriracha mayo for spicy lovers!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30–45 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Deep-Fry
