These fun Rattlesnake Bites are tasty jalapeño cheese balls that pack a punch! Coated in crispy breadcrumbs, they are perfect for a snack or party appetizer.
Don’t worry if you can’t handle the heat, they’re just the right amount of spicy! I love pairing them with ranch dressing for a delicious dip. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This ingredient gives the bites their creamy texture. If you’re lactose intolerant, you can use a dairy-free cream cheese substitute with similar consistency.
Monterey Jack Cheese: This adds wonderful flavor and melts beautifully. Cheddar or Pepper Jack are great alternatives for even more spice.
Jalapeños: Adjust the heat by using mild jalapeños or even banana peppers if you want less kick. You could also use canned jalapeños, but be sure to drain them well.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give a nice crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, though they may not be as crispy. Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be a good option for those with gluten sensitivities.
How Do You Fry Perfectly Crispy Rattlesnake Bites?
Frying can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can ensure your bites are crispy and golden brown. First, ensure your oil is hot enough (around 350°F). If it’s too cool, the bites will soak up oil and become greasy.
- Use a deep pot or fryer to allow for even cooking and to prevent splatter.
- Fry in small batches; overcrowding lowers the oil temperature and results in soggy bites.
- Keep an eye on them! They only need about 2-3 minutes to get that lovely golden color.
Once they’re out, drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy bites!
Easy Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing the ingredients and forming the balls, and then about 15 minutes frying them to crispy perfection. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all the ingredients are well blended and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
2. Form the Bites:
Using your hands, scoop out a tablespoon of the mixture and roll it into small 1-inch balls. Place each ball on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This will make it easy to move them later for frying.
3. Set Up a Breading Station:
In one shallow bowl, add the flour. In a second bowl, pour in the beaten eggs. In a third bowl, spread out the panko breadcrumbs. This station will make it easy to coat the bites in crispy goodness!
4. Coat the Cheese Balls:
Take each cheese ball and roll it first in the flour to coat, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they are fully covered. This multi-step process gives them their crunch!
5. Fry the Bites:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the cheese balls in batches into the hot oil. Fry each batch for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot so they cook evenly.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to gently remove the Rattlesnake Bites from the oil. Drain them on paper towels to soak up excess oil. Serve them warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce.
Enjoy these spicy, crispy, creamy Rattlesnake Bites just like at Texas Roadhouse!
FAQ for Easy Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Can I Use Low-Fat Cream Cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese, but the texture may be slightly different. Full-fat cream cheese provides a creamier, richer flavor and texture, so keep that in mind when making the swap!
How Can I Make These Rattlesnake Bites Spicier?
If you want more heat, consider adding additional jalapeños or incorporating diced serrano peppers into the cheese mixture. For an even bolder flavor, mix in some cayenne pepper or use spicy pepper jack cheese instead of Monterey Jack.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake them, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the coated cheese balls on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Spray them lightly with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Rattlesnake Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, which will help retain their crispiness.
