Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Recipe
Enjoy these crispy, cheesy Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites, featuring a melty blend of mozzarella and white cheddar with a spicy kick from jalapenos. Deep-fried to golden perfection and served with creamy ranch dressing, these appetizers are perfect for parties or game day snacks.
- Author: Jeannette
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Cheese Mixture
- 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and minced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Breading and Frying
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil (or other neutral oil), for frying
Serving
- Ranch dressing, for serving
- Combine Cheese and Jalapenos: In a large bowl, stir together the shredded mozzarella, white cheddar, minced jalapenos, and minced garlic until evenly combined for a flavorful base.
- Form Cheese Balls and Freeze: Using your hands, tightly squeeze the cheese mixture into 10 balls. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 4 hours to ensure they hold shape during frying.
- Heat Oil for Frying: Pour vegetable oil into a medium saucepan until it reaches about 1 inch up the sides. Heat over medium-high until the oil temperature reaches 350°F, preparing to fry in batches.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, and one combining panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and salt for seasoned coating.
- Bread the Frozen Cheese Balls: Roll each frozen cheese ball first in flour, then dip into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumbs.
- Fry the Bites: Carefully fry the breaded cheese balls for about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy on the outside, with the cheese inside melted and gooey. Remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
- Serve: Serve the hot rattlesnake bites immediately alongside ranch dressing for dipping to enjoy their full flavor and crunch.
Notes
- Freezing the cheese balls before frying is essential to prevent them from melting and losing shape in the hot oil.
- Use a thermometer to maintain oil temperature at 350°F for perfect frying results.
- You can adjust the amount of jalapenos to control the spiciness according to your preference.
- For a crispier coating, double dip the cheese balls in the egg and panko mixture.
- Serve with extra ranch or your favorite dipping sauce for variety.
Keywords: rattlesnake bites, copycat recipe, Texas Roadhouse appetizer, fried cheese balls, jalapeno bites