These Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are crispy and cheesy with a spicy twist! Filled with creamy cheese and spicy peppers, they are a great snack for any occasion.
Who doesn’t love a delicious bite-sized treat? I can’t stop snacking on these while watching my favorite show—just be careful, they can be pretty hot! 🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives the bites their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt, but the flavor and texture will change a bit.
Monterrey Jack Cheese: It adds a wonderful meltiness. If you can’t find it, try using cheddar or pepper Jack for an added kick. The spiciness will increase with pepper Jack!
Jalapeño Peppers: These provide the signature heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, feel free to omit them or use milder peppers, like banana peppers. Roasted red peppers can also work for a different flavor profile.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give that perfect crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but they’ll be less crunchy. You can also use crushed cornflakes for a fun twist.
How Do I Shape and Fry the Rattlesnake Bites Perfectly?
Shaping and frying the cheese balls is crucial for achieving that perfect bite! Here are some tips to help you:
- Make sure to freeze the balls for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape while frying.
- When breading, gently roll each ball in flour first. This helps the egg stick better.
- Use a pot with deep sides for frying to reduce splatter and ensure even cooking.
- Monitor the oil temperature. If it’s too hot, the bites will burn on the outside and remain cold inside. A thermometer helps here!
- Fry in small batches to avoid overcrowding—this keeps the oil temperature stable and ensures crispy bites.
Enjoy the process, and soon you’ll have a plate of delicious Rattlesnake Bites to savor!
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterrey Jack cheese
- 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed saltine crackers
- Vegetable oil for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of active preparation time, plus an additional 30 minutes to freeze the cheese balls. After frying, serve them immediately for the best taste. In total, you’ll need about an hour to make these delicious bites!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded Monterrey Jack cheese, finely chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous with spice. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
2. Form the Cheese Balls:
Using your hands, roll the cheese mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place the formed balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once they’re all shaped, pop them into the freezer for about 30 minutes. This step will help the cheese balls keep their shape while frying!
3. Set Up for Breading:
While the cheese balls are freezing, prepare your breading stations. In one bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, paprika, and salt. In a second bowl, beat the eggs until they are well-mixed. In a third bowl, pour the panko breadcrumbs or crushed saltines.
4. Bread the Cheese Balls:
Once the cheese balls are firm, take them out of the freezer. One by one, roll each ball in the flour mixture first, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. For that extra crunchy goodness, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
5. Fry the Bites:
In a deep fryer or a large pot, heat the vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded cheese bites in batches, frying them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crisp. Avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even cooking.
6. Drain and Serve:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the Rattlesnake Bites, letting any excess oil drip off. Place them onto a plate lined with paper towels to help absorb any additional oil.
7. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious Rattlesnake Bites hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or a spicy sauce. Enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite just like they serve at Texas Roadhouse!
FAQ for Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While Monterrey Jack is traditional, you can substitute it with cheddar or pepper jack cheese for added flavor. Just remember that changing the cheese might slightly alter the taste and texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Rattlesnake Bites?
Store any leftover Rattlesnake Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until heated through and crispy again!
Can I Make These Bites Spicier?
Yes! To increase the heat, add more jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes during the mixing stage. Adjust to your spice preference!
Can I Freeze the Bites Before Frying?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked cheese balls for up to a month! Just ensure they are well-covered to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to fry them, cook them straight from the freezer without thawing—just add a minute or two to the frying time.
