These Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are spicy, cheesy, and oh-so-delicious! Made with cream cheese, jalapeños, and a crispy coating, they are perfect for snacking or sharing!
Trust me, once you start munching on these, it’s hard to stop! I love serving them with ranch dressing for dipping. It’s a sure winner at any party! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This brings a rich and creamy texture to the bites. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese, which has less fat but still offers creaminess.
Jalapeños: For that spicy kick, use fresh jalapeños. If you’d prefer a milder flavor, opt for diced bell peppers instead. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great flavor. Feel free to mix it up with pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Green Onions: These add freshness. Chives can be a nice substitute if you can’t find green onions, or skip them altogether if desired.
Cornmeal or Saltine Crackers: This gives a crunchy coating! If you’re gluten-free, consider using crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for coating.
How Do I Get the Perfect Golden Brown Color When Frying?
Frying can be tricky, but achieving that perfect golden-brown color is about managing the oil temperature. Here’s how:
- Use a thermometer to check the oil is heated to 350°F (175°C) before frying.
- Do not overcrowd the pot; fry in small batches to keep the oil temperature stable.
- Fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the bites turn golden brown.
This not only affects color but also ensures they’re cooked through.
Letting them drain on paper towels helps keep the bites crispy. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cooked diced jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat if desired)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and diced green onions
For the Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups cornmeal or crushed saltine crackers (for coating, optional for extra crunch)
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation, plus 30 minutes of chilling time, and around 10 minutes for frying. In total, you’re looking at about 55 minutes to have these tasty bites ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cooked jalapeños, shredded cheddar cheese, and diced green onions. Mix everything well until evenly blended, creating a delicious filling.
2. Form the Bites:
Using your hands, take small amounts of the mixture and form them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Once shaped, place them on a tray and pop them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape while frying.
3. Prepare the Coating:
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until combined. For extra crunch, place the cornmeal or crushed saltine crackers into a third bowl.
4. Coat the Bites:
Take each cream cheese ball and first dip it into the flour mixture, coating it lightly. Then, dip it into the egg mixture before rolling it in the cornmeal or cracker coating for an extra crispy texture.
5. Fry the Bites:
In a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Make sure there’s enough oil to cover the bites when frying. Carefully drop the coated bites into the hot oil in small batches to avoid overcrowding, which will help keep the temperature consistent.
6. Drain and Serve:
Fry the bites for about 2-3 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove them and drain on paper towels to get rid of excess oil. Serve them warm with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy your delicious homemade Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites! They’re sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Jalapeños Instead of Cooked?
Yes, fresh jalapeños can be used for a spicier kick! Simply dice them finely and mix them into the filling. However, be mindful of the heat level, as seeds can intensify the spice.
How Can I Make These Bites Gluten-Free?
You can easily make these Rattlesnake Bites gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free crumbs for the coating, such as almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the bite-sized balls and refrigerate them for a day before frying. Just keep them covered in the fridge, then fry them just before serving for the best crunch!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
