Nacho Cheese Doritos Mozzarella Sticks with Zesty Marinara

Step-by-Step Instructions

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   Elevate your snack game with these ridiculously crunchy, cheesy mozzarella sticks, coated in crushed Nacho Cheese Doritos. Paired with a vibrant, homemade marinara sauce, they're an irresistible party appetizer or comfort food.

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   12 frozen mozzarella string cheese sticks

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   2 cups Nacho Cheese Doritos, finely crushed

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   1/2 cup all-purpose flour

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   2 large eggs, beaten

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   1 teaspoon garlic powder

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   1/2 teaspoon onion powder

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   1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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   Vegetable oil, for frying

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    For the Zesty Marinara Sauce:

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    1 tablespoon olive oil

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    1 clove garlic, minced

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    1 (15 ounce) can crushed tomatoes

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    1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

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    1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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    1/2 teaspoon sugar

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    Salt and fresh black pepper to taste

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    2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

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    Place mozzarella sticks in the freezer for at least 30 minutes (or longer) to ensure they are very firm.

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    Set up a dredging station: In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

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    In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs.

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    In a third shallow dish, place the finely crushed Doritos.

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    Working with one mozzarella stick at a time, first dredge it in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

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    Next, dip it into the beaten egg, ensuring it's fully coated.

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    Finally, roll it thoroughly in the crushed Doritos, pressing gently to make sure the crumbs adhere well.

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    Repeat the process for all mozzarella sticks, then place them back on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for at least 1-2 hours (or up to overnight) to prevent cheese from melting too quickly during frying.

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    While the mozzarella sticks are freezing, prepare the Zesty Marinara Sauce: Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.

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    Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

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    Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), and sugar.

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    Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for at least 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow flavors to meld.

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    Season the marinara sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and set aside.

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    When ready to fry, heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).

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    Carefully add 2-3 frozen mozzarella sticks to the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot.

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    Fry for 1-2 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and crispy.

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    Remove the fried mozzarella sticks with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

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    Repeat with the remaining mozzarella sticks.

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    Garnish the marinara sauce with fresh chopped basil.

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    Serve the hot Doritos mozzarella sticks immediately with the warm Zesty Marinara Sauce for dipping.