Ingredients

For the Hot Dogs

  • 4 all-beef hot dogs
  • 4 hot dog buns
  • 1 cup Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, crushed
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)

For the Spicy Mayo

  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp sriracha sauce
  • 1 tsp lime juice
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

Toppings

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional)

Equipment

  • Deep fryer or large pot
  • Tongs
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Food processor or resealable bag (for crushing Cheetos)
  • Paper towels

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spicy Mayo:
    • In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until smooth. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
  2. Crush the Cheetos:
    • Place Flamin’ Hot Cheetos in a food processor and pulse until finely crushed, or seal in a resealable bag and crush with a rolling pin. Transfer to a shallow bowl.
  3. Set Up the Breading Station:
    • In one bowl, mix flour, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika.
    • In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
    • Keep the crushed Cheetos in their own bowl.
  4. Bread the Hot Dogs:
    • Pat hot dogs dry with paper towels.
    • Dredge each hot dog in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
    • Dip in the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off.
    • Roll in crushed Cheetos, pressing gently to adhere. Set aside on a plate.
  5. Heat the Oil:
    • In a deep fryer or large pot, heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a thermometer to monitor temperature.
  6. Fry the Hot Dogs:
    • Carefully lower breaded hot dogs into the hot oil using tongs, working in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
    • Fry for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the Cheetos coating is crispy and golden. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  7. Toast the Buns:
    • Lightly toast hot dog buns in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until golden.
  8. Assemble the Hot Dogs:
    • Place a fried hot dog in each bun.
    • Drizzle with spicy mayo.
    • Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, and jalapeño slices (if using).
  9. Serve:
    • Serve immediately with extra crushed Flamin’ Hot Cheetos on the side for added crunch, if desired.

Tips

  • Make Ahead: The spicy mayo can be prepared up to 2 days in advance and stored in the fridge.
  • Variation: Swap Flamin’ Hot Cheetos for regular Cheetos for a milder flavor.
  • Safety: Be cautious when frying; hot oil can splatter. Keep a lid nearby to cover the pot if needed.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 600 kcal
  • Protein: 15g
  • Fat: 40g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g

Serves: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes