Fried cheese stuffed Doritos are a crunchy and cheesy treat that’s hard to resist! These snacks have a crispy outer shell and warm, gooey cheese inside that makes every bite delightful.
Honestly, who can say no to more cheese? I love serving these with a side of salsa for dipping. It’s the perfect combo for any snack time or party!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Doritos: These are essential for the signature flavor! I recommend using Nacho Cheese or Cool Ranch for a tasty twist. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try baked tortilla chips, though the flavor will be milder.
Cheese: Mozzarella is great for its melting quality, but you can mix it up! Cheddar, pepper jack, or even a spicy cheese blend can add a nice kick and flavor variety.
Flour: All-purpose flour works perfectly here, but if you need a gluten-free option, you can try using almond flour or rice flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Fry These Without Making a Mess?
Frying can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll be a pro in no time. Start by making sure your oil is hot enough—around 350°F (175°C). If it’s too cool, your cheese may leak out before the coating crisps up.
- Use a deep, heavy pot for frying to maintain even heat.
- Fry in small batches to avoid cooling the oil too much, which can lead to soggy bites.
- Keep a slotted spoon ready to drain excess oil quickly.
Your goal is a crispy coating with gooey cheese inside—no one likes a mess! Just be vigilant and you’ll achieve amazing results.
How to Make Fried Cheese Stuffed Doritos
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups Doritos chips, crushed finely
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or cheese sticks cut into smaller pieces)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: chopped parsley or chives for garnish
- Optional: hot sauce or dipping sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes for frying. So, in just around 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious snack ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Breading Station:
Begin by setting up your breading station. Place the all-purpose flour in one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs in another bowl until well combined, and pour the crushed Doritos into a third bowl. It’s best to keep everything organized to make the process smooth.
2. Shape the Cheese:
Take a small piece of mozzarella cheese or use a cheese stick and cut it into smaller pieces if necessary. If you’re feeling creative, shape them into small triangular logs or balls. This will help them fit perfectly inside the Doritos coating.
3. Bread the Cheese:
Now it’s time to coat your cheese! First, dip each piece into the flour, making sure it’s coated on all sides. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the crushed Doritos, pressing gently to ensure the chips stick well. This creates that tasty, crunchy layer!
4. Double Coating for Extra Crunch:
If you want extra crispy Doritos, repeat the dipping process by putting the cheese pieces back into the egg and then into the crushed Doritos once more. This will give you a thicker, crunchier coating!
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep frying pan or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until it reaches about 350°F (175°C). The oil should be deep enough to allow the cheese to float while frying. You can use a thermometer for accuracy, but if you don’t have one, just drop in a small piece of bread; if it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is ready!
6. Fry the Cheese Stuffed Doritos:
Carefully place your coated cheese pieces in the hot oil in small batches. Fry for about 1-2 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan, as this will reduce the oil temperature and make them soggy.
7. Drain and Cool:
Using a slotted spoon, remove the fried Doritos from the oil and let them drain on paper towels. This will remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your Fried Cheese Stuffed Doritos hot! You can garnish them with chopped parsley or chives for a fresh touch. They are fantastic on their own or served with your favorite hot sauce or dipping sauce.
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy pockets filled with melting cheese and covered in a zesty Doritos crust!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is a great choice due to its meltiness, you can also use cheddar, pepper jack, or any cheese you love for added flavor. Just ensure that it melts well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes to regain their crispiness instead of using the microwave.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cheese-filled Doritos up to the frying step and keep them in the fridge for a few hours. Just bread them, refrigerate, and fry them right before serving for the best results!
What if My Cheese Leaks Out While Frying?
If cheese leaks out during frying, it’s usually because the coating wasn’t secure enough. Make sure you press the Doritos firmly as you coat the cheese. Also, try to keep the frying temperature consistent to ensure that the coating crisps up quickly!