Description
Crunchy, cheesy jalapeño bites inspired by Texas diners—these rattlesnake bites are spicy, gooey, and perfect for parties or game day. Easy to make at home, they feature a double-coated crispy crust and a customizable heat level.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 large jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 ½ cups seasoned breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 2–3 cups oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)
- Ranch dressing or chipotle mayo for dipping
Instructions
- Wash and dry jalapeños. Slice in half, remove seeds and membranes for milder bites, then finely chop.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped jalapeños, Monterey Jack, cheddar, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and evenly combined.
- Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, shape mixture into 1-inch balls (about 24). Place on a parchment-lined tray and chill in the fridge for 15 minutes.
- Set up three breading stations: one bowl with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with smoked paprika and cayenne.
- Roll each ball in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step for a double coating.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry bites in batches for 2-3 minutes, turning until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
- Let cool slightly and serve hot with ranch or chipotle mayo.
Notes
Chill the filling before breading for best results. Double-coat for extra crunch. Adjust jalapeño seeds for desired heat. Can be baked or air-fried for a lighter version. Gluten-free and vegan adaptations work well. Taste a test batch before frying the rest to adjust seasoning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 bites
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 11
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 6
Keywords: rattlesnake bites, Texas appetizer, jalapeño bites, party snack, fried cheese balls, spicy appetizer, game day food