Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Recipe -

Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are a beloved appetizer known for their spicy kick and cheesy goodness. These bites, packed with pepper jack and sharp cheddar cheese and a hint of jalapeno heat, are encased in a crispy, seasoned batter. The following recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating these delightful snacks at home, ensuring a crowd-pleasing treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

2 cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 jalapenos, seeds removed, finely diced
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk
1½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning (or a blend of Cajun seasonings)
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1-2 cups vegetable oil, for frying

Preparation:

Step 1:
Create a dredging station with three shallow containers. In the first, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. In the third, combine the Panko breadcrumbs with Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded pepper jack and sharp cheddar cheeses with the finely diced jalapenos. Mix well until the jalapenos are evenly distributed.

Step 3:
Roll the cheese mixture into small, bite-sized balls, about the size of a tablespoon, and arrange them on a baking sheet. Freeze these balls for 30-45 minutes to firm up, which helps maintain their shape during frying.

Step 4:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or skillet over medium-high heat, aiming for a temperature around 350°F (175°C).

Step 5:
Take the cheese balls from the freezer and coat each one first in the flour, then dip into the buttermilk and egg mixture, and finally roll in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.

COOKING Note:

Fry the bites in batches of 6-8 at a time to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the oil temperature and lead to soggy bites. Cook each batch until golden brown on all sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per batch.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Rattlesnake Bites hot, accompanied by ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce, providing a creamy contrast to the spicy, crispy bites.

Tips:

For a milder version, use less jalapeno or substitute one of the jalapenos with bell pepper.
Ensure the cheese balls are thoroughly chilled before frying to prevent them from falling apart in the hot oil.

Prep Time:

30 minutes (plus 30-45 minutes for flash freezing)

Cooking Time:

10-15 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 35 minutes

Nutritional Information:

Calories: Approximately 150-200 per serving (varies with size and cheese used)
Protein: 6-8 grams per serving
Sodium: 200-300 mg per serving

Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites encapsulate the essence of Southern-style appetizers with their spicy, cheesy flavor encased in a crispy outer layer. By following this recipe, you can recreate the restaurant experience at home, offering a perfect snack for gatherings, game nights, or simply as a treat to spice up your mealtime.