Rattlesnake Bites Recipe

Introduction

Rattlesnake Bites are spicy, gooey cheese balls that make a perfect appetizer or snack. With a crispy coating and a kick from jalapenos and cayenne, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Ingredients

• 4 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
• 2-3 jalapenos, diced (seeds removed)
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1 egg
• 1 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Oil for frying

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, stir together the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and diced jalapenos until well combined.
2. Step 2: Shape the cheese mixture into balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place them in the freezer for 30 to 60 minutes to firm up.
3. Step 3: Heat oil in a deep pot to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs, cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well.
5. Step 5: Prepare three bowls for dredging: one with flour, one with the beaten egg mixed with milk, and one with the seasoned bread crumb mixture.
6. Step 6: Roll each cheese ball first in flour, then dip in the egg and milk mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with the bread crumb mixture.
7. Step 7: Fry a few bites at a time in the hot oil for 3 to 4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
8. Step 8: Remove from oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• Remove seeds from jalapenos to reduce heat, or leave some for extra spice.
• Serve with ranch or spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
• Try mixing in cooked bacon bits for a smoky twist.
• Freeze shaped cheese balls longer if you want firmer bites before frying.

Storage

Store fried rattlesnake bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to maintain crispiness. Unfried, shaped cheese balls can be frozen for up to 1 month; fry directly from frozen.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cheese?

Pepper Jack is ideal for its spicy flavor and melt, but you can substitute with Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar. Just note the flavor and spice level may change.

What oil is best for frying?

Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil, to get a crispy coating without burning.

Rattlesnake Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 140 reviews

• Author: Matteo
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 15 servings 1x

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Description

Rattlesnake Bites are a spicy and cheesy appetizer featuring pepper jack cheese and jalapeños coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and deep-fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized treats are perfect for parties, game days, or any occasion where you want a flavorful, crispy snack with a kick of heat.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Cheese Mixture

• 4 Cups Pepper Jack Cheese (Shredded)
• 2–3 Jalapenos (Diced, seeds removed)

Breading and Coating

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

Other

• Oil (For Frying, enough for deep frying)

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Instructions

1. Combine Cheese and Jalapenos: In a large bowl, stir together the shredded pepper jack cheese and diced jalapeños until evenly mixed.
2. Form Cheese Balls: Shape the cheese mixture into balls roughly 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place the formed balls on a tray and freeze for 30 to 60 minutes to firm up.
3. Heat Oil: While the cheese balls chill, heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C) for frying.
4. Prepare Seasoned Breadcrumbs: In a bowl, combine bread crumbs with cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder to add flavor.
5. Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three separate shallow bowls: one with flour, one with a mixture of egg and milk, and one with the seasoned bread crumbs.
6. Coat Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball first in the flour, then dip it into the milk and egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned bread crumbs.
7. Fry: Fry the breaded cheese balls in batches in the hot oil for 3 to 4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
8. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried rattlesnake bites with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Removing the seeds from the jalapeños reduces the heat for a milder bite. Keep seeds if you prefer spicier treats.
• Freezing the cheese balls before frying helps them hold together and prevents them from melting too quickly.
• Use a deep-frying oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil for best results.
• Cook the bites in small batches to maintain oil temperature for even frying.
• Serve with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dipping sauce for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Rattlesnake Bites, fried cheese balls, spicy appetizer, jalapeño snacks, pepper jack cheese, party food