These Easy Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are fun and tasty! They’re cheesy, spicy snacks made with cream cheese and green chilies, all wrapped in a golden crust—yum!
They’re perfect for sharing or snacking all by yourself (no judgment here!). 😊 I love serving them with ranch dressing for dipping—it adds that extra zing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture. You can use Neufchâtel cheese if you’re aiming for a lighter option!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my go-to for flavor, but feel free to mix in pepper jack for extra heat or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños offer great flavor and heat. If you prefer less spice, use bell peppers. Canned green chilies work well, too, and are convenient!
Panko Breadcrumbs: These add a wonderful crunch. Regular breadcrumbs can be a substitute, but they won’t be quite as crispy. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How Do You Fry Rattlesnake Bites Without Too Much Mess?
Frying can seem tricky, but with a few tips, you can make it easier. First, make sure the oil is hot enough before adding your bites—it should bubble gently around them. Fry in smaller batches to keep the oil temperature steady and ensure even cooking.
- Use a thermometer to check the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it brings down the temperature.
- Let the bites cool on paper towels after frying to absorb excess oil.
These tips can help you achieve a perfect crispy texture without a big mess. Enjoy your cooking! 😊
Easy Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and diced jalapeño peppers (or canned diced green chilies)
- 1/2 cup diced scallions (green onions)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare the ingredients and shape the bites, plus 30 minutes for freezing, and around 10 minutes for frying. In total, you’re looking at about 55 minutes from start to finish, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Cheese Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños (or green chilies), scallions, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if you’re feeling spicy!). Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
2. Shape the Bites:
Once your cheese mixture is ready, take a small handful and shape it into bite-sized balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place these balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment or wax paper. Pop the sheet in the freezer for at least 30 minutes to help firm them up, making it easier to fry.
3. Set Up Your Breading Stations:
While your bites are in the freezer, prepare three shallow bowls: one with all-purpose flour, another with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs. This will be your dipping station for coating the bites!
4. Coat the Bites:
After chilling, take the bites out of the freezer. One by one, roll each ball in the flour, making sure to tap off the excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it evenly in the panko breadcrumbs. Repeat until all bites are coated.
5. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or large skillet, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there’s enough oil to fully submerge the bites for even frying.
6. Fry the Rattlesnake Bites:
Carefully add the bites to the hot oil in batches. Don’t overcrowd the pan! Fry them for about 2-3 minutes, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
7. Drain and Cool:
Once fried, use a slotted spoon to remove the bites from the oil, and let them drain on paper towels to absorb any extra oil.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm, crispy rattlesnake bites with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce. Trust me, they will disappear fast!
Enjoy these delicious, cheesy, and slightly spicy rattlesnake bites as a fabulous appetizer or a fun snack!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make Rattlesnake Bites Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cheese filling and shape the bites in advance. Freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer them to an airtight container once firm. They can be stored in the freezer for up to a month. Just fry them directly from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy!
How Do I Store Leftover Rattlesnake Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
What Can I Use Instead of Jalapeños?
If you prefer a milder taste, you can substitute jalapeños with bell peppers or skip them entirely and use just the cream cheese and cheddar mixture. Canned diced green chilies also work great for a milder flavor without the heat!
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Rattlesnake Bites?
Yes! For a healthier option, you can bake the bites. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the bites on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and lightly spray them with cooking oil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
