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Rattlesnake Bites Recipe

4.8 from 111 reviews

Rattlesnake Bites are spicy, cheesy appetizers made by combining pepper jack cheese and diced jalapenos, then breading and deep-frying the mixture into crispy, flavorful bites perfect for parties or game day snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Cheese Mixture

  • 4 Cups Pepper Jack Cheese (Shredded)
  • 23 Jalapenos (Diced, seeds removed)

Breading

  • 1/2 Cup Flour
  • 1 Egg
  • 1 Cup Milk
  • 1 1/2 Cup Bread Crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

For Frying

  • Oil (for frying, enough to deep fry)

Instructions

  1. Combine Cheese and Jalapenos: In a large bowl, thoroughly stir together the shredded pepper jack cheese and diced jalapenos with seeds removed, ensuring an even distribution of spice.
  2. Shape and Freeze: Form the cheese mixture into balls approximately 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the balls on a tray and freeze them for 30 to 60 minutes to firm up for frying.
  3. Heat Oil: Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C), preparing it for deep frying.
  4. Prepare Breading Mix: In a separate bowl, mix the bread crumbs, cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder together to infuse the crumbs with flavor and spice.
  5. Set Up Dredging Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with the beaten egg mixed with milk, and one with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
  6. Bread the Cheese Balls: Roll each frozen cheese ball first in flour, then dip in the egg and milk mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs.
  7. Deep Fry: Fry a few cheese balls at a time in the hot oil for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
  8. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried rattlesnake bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving warm.

Notes

  • Removing the jalapeno seeds reduces the overall heat; add seeds for more spice.
  • Freezing the cheese balls before frying helps maintain their shape and prevents cheese from leaking out.
  • Ensure oil temperature is maintained at 350°F for best frying results.
  • Serve with ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
  • Use a deep pot or fryer with enough oil to fully submerge the bites for even cooking.

Keywords: Rattlesnake Bites, Cheesy Jalapeno Balls, Spicy Appetizer, Deep Fried Cheese Bites, Pepper Jack Cheese Snacks