Preheat oven to 400°F for baking, or heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy pan for frying.

Arrange three bowls: first, combine flour, kosher salt, and garlic powder; second, whisk the eggs; third, place crushed Hot Cheetos.

Individually coat each halved mozzarella stick in the seasoned flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally roll in crushed Cheetos until fully coated.

For baking: place coated sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy. For frying: carefully lower coated sticks into hot oil and fry for 2–3 minutes until golden brown, turning as needed.

Transfer hot mozzarella sticks to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.