Description
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are an irresistible appetizer featuring a bold blend of spicy jalapeños and creamy cheese, all enclosed in a crispy, golden breadcrumb coating. These bite-sized snacks offer the perfect combination of heat and gooey cheese, balanced by a satisfying crunch. Traditionally served with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce, they are a crowd-pleasing starter for any meal, whether you’re hosting a game day party, a family gathering, or simply craving a spicy snack. Easy to make at home, these Rattlesnake Bites bring a taste of the Southwest to your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 jalapenos, seeds removed, sautéed until soft
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1½ cup Panko breadcrumbs (see note)
- 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1–2 cups vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Dredging Station: Set up three shallow containers. In the first, place the flour. In the second, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. In the third, combine the breadcrumbs with all the seasonings.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix both cheeses and the softened jalapenos.
- Form and Freeze: Roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet. Flash freeze for 30-45 minutes.
- Dredge: Roll each ball in the flour, dip in the egg mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture. Repeat the dip in the egg mixture and the breadcrumb coating for a double layer.
- Fry: Heat the oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the balls in batches, about 6-8 at a time, until golden on all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Notes
- Adjusting Spice Levels:
- If you’re sensitive to heat, be sure to remove all seeds and membranes from the jalapeños, as that’s where most of the heat is concentrated. You can also opt for milder peppers like poblanos or bell peppers.
- For those who love spice, leave in some seeds or choose a spicier pepper variety.
- Cheese Variations:
- The traditional recipe uses Pepper Jack and Cheddar cheese, but feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or Habanero cheese for an extra kick.
- Ensure your cheese is freshly grated for the best melting consistency.
- Freezing for Later:
- If you plan to make the bites ahead of time, prepare them up to the breading step and then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to an airtight container. When ready to cook, fry or bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Healthier Option:
- To reduce calories and fat, you can bake the bites instead of frying. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure an even, crispy texture.
- Dipping Sauce Suggestions:
- While ranch is the most common dipping sauce, you can get creative with other options like chipotle mayo, honey mustard, or even a sweet chili sauce for a unique twist.
- Serving Suggestions:
- These bites pair well with light, refreshing beverages like beer, margaritas, or lemonade to complement the spice. They also make a great starter for hearty mains like steaks, ribs, or other barbecue dishes.