When it comes to comfort food, there’s nothing quite like combining rich, creamy cheese with crispy, flavorful chips. This recipe for Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos takes snacking to the next level by creating a cheesy, bacon-filled bite that’s perfect for parties, game nights, or a cozy evening at home. With three cooking options—deep frying, air frying, and baking—you can enjoy this treat no matter your preference.
Ingredients and Quantities
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 large bag of Doritos (Nacho Cheese or your favorite flavor)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking oil for frying or baking spray (if air frying or baking)
Direction and Preparation Method
Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
Start by making the delicious filling that gives these Doritos their indulgent twist:
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Add the crumbled bacon, finely chopped green onions, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, and stir until all the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Set aside the filling while preparing the Doritos.
Step 2: Prepare the Doritos
The key to this recipe is carefully turning each Dorito into a pocket for the filling:
- Using a small knife or your hands, gently cut or split open one side of each Dorito to create a pocket. Be careful to avoid breaking the chips.
- Spoon or pipe the prepared cream cheese mixture into each Dorito pocket, filling generously. Press lightly to seal.
Step 3: Bread the Stuffed Doritos
For a crispy, golden exterior, the stuffed Doritos need to be breaded:
- Set up a breading station with three bowls: one for flour, one for the beaten egg, and one for the panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat each stuffed Dorito in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip the floured Dorito into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, roll the Dorito in panko breadcrumbs until evenly covered.
Step 4: Cook the Stuffed Doritos
You can choose from three methods to cook your stuffed Doritos, depending on your preference:
Deep Fry
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy skillet to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry the stuffed Doritos in batches for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Remove the Doritos and drain them on paper towels.
Air Fry
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the stuffed Doritos in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking oil.
- Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.
Option 3: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the stuffed Doritos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spray lightly with cooking oil.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until crispy and golden.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the stuffed Doritos warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Popular choices include ranch, salsa, or spicy queso. Enjoy this indulgent snack while it’s hot and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed Doritos up to the breading step and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply cook them using your preferred method.
Q2: What other Doritos flavors work well?
While Nacho Cheese is a classic choice, Cool Ranch and Spicy Sweet Chili are also excellent options. Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors!
Q3: Can I skip the breading step?
If you prefer a quicker preparation, you can skip the breading step and enjoy the stuffed Doritos as soft, stuffed chips. However, breading adds a delightful crunch.
Q4: Are there vegetarian alternatives to bacon?
Yes, you can substitute bacon with plant-based bacon bits or crumbled smoked tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Q5: What dipping sauces pair best with this dish?
Ranch, salsa, and spicy queso are all popular options. For a unique twist, try guacamole or a tangy chipotle mayo.
Conclusion
Cream Cheese and Bacon Stuffed Doritos are a crowd-pleasing snack that combines the best of creamy, cheesy filling and crunchy chips. With simple ingredients and multiple cooking options, this recipe is versatile and easy to adapt to your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or simply indulging in a comforting treat, these stuffed Doritos are sure to impress. Try them out today and elevate your snack game!