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Rattlesnake Bites Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 116 reviews

Rattlesnake Bites are spicy, cheesy appetizers featuring melted Pepper Jack cheese combined with diced jalapenos, breaded and deep-fried to golden perfection. These bite-sized snacks offer a flavorful kick with a crispy crust, perfect for parties or game day treats.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 cups Pepper Jack Cheese, shredded
  • 2–3 jalapenos, diced (seeds removed)

Breading & Coating

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 1/2 cups bread crumbs

Spices

  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

For Frying

  • Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil recommended)

Instructions

  1. Mix Cheese and Jalapenos: In a large bowl, combine the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and diced jalapenos (with seeds removed) thoroughly to distribute the heat and flavor evenly.
  2. Shape into Balls: Take portions of the cheese mixture and shape them into balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place these balls on a tray and freeze them for 30 to 60 minutes to firm up, which helps prevent melting during frying.
  3. Prepare Oil for Frying: Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C), ensuring there is enough oil to fully submerge the bites for even frying.
  4. Mix Spiced Bread Crumbs: In a separate bowl, combine the bread crumbs with cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, mixing well to infuse the coating with flavor and spice.
  5. Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three separate bowls containing: flour in the first, a mixture of beaten egg and milk in the second, and the seasoned bread crumb mixture in the third. This setup ensures proper breading adhesion.
  6. Bread the Cheese Balls: Roll each frozen cheese ball first in the flour, then dip into the egg and milk mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned bread crumbs.
  7. Fry the Bites: Fry a few cheese balls at a time in the hot oil for 3 to 4 minutes or until the exterior is golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcrowding the pot to maintain oil temperature.
  8. Drain and Serve: Remove the fried rattlesnake bites using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels to remove excess oil before serving hot.

Notes

  • Removing seeds from jalapenos helps reduce the overall heat but still provides a nice spice level.
  • Freezing the cheese balls before frying prevents the cheese from oozing out too quickly during the frying process.
  • Use a thermometer to maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for crispy, evenly cooked bites.
  • Serve with a cooling dip such as ranch or sour cream to balance the spicy flavors.
  • Leftover rattlesnake bites can be reheated in an oven to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: Rattlesnake Bites, spicy cheese balls, jalapeno appetizers, fried snacks, Pepper Jack cheese bites

Find it online: https://jedentaglecker.com/rattlesnake-bites-recipe/