WHO love Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites!

One sweltering summer evening, as the cicadas sang their chorus and the sun dipped below the horizon, I found myself craving a bit of Texan spice. The kind of snack that makes your taste buds tingle and pairs perfectly with a cold drink. That’s when I remembered the Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites – a delightfully fiery treat that combines the heat of jalapenos with the creamy goodness of cheese, all wrapped in a crunchy golden crust. It’s the sort of dish that brings people together, sparking laughter and conversation as everyone reaches for just one more bite.

 

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a backyard barbecue at a friend’s house. There, amidst the smoky aroma of grilled meats and the chatter of old friends, a plate of these tantalizing bites was passed around. Their bold flavors and satisfying crunch left a lasting impression. Inspired, I decided to recreate that experience in my own kitchen, aiming to capture the essence of those carefree summer gatherings.

 

To make these Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites, you’ll need a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience. The process is straightforward, but each step is crucial to achieving that perfect blend of textures and flavors. Here’s how to do it:

Ingredients

• 2 cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 jalapenos, seeds removed, sautéed until soft
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1½ cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1-2 cups vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Set Up Dredging Station: Arrange three shallow containers. Fill the first with flour, the second with a mixture of buttermilk and eggs whisked together, and the third with Panko breadcrumbs combined with Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the shredded pepper jack cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and softened jalapenos. Mix thoroughly until well-blended.
3. Form Cheese Balls: Using your hands, roll the cheese mixture into small balls. Place them on a small baking sheet and flash freeze for 30-45 minutes. This step helps the balls hold their shape during frying.
4. Heat Oil: In a large frying pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough to sizzle a breadcrumb but not so hot that it smokes.
5. Dredge Cheese Balls: Roll each cheese ball in flour first, then dip it into the buttermilk-egg mixture, and finally coat it with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each ball is fully coated at each step.
6. Fry Cheese Balls: Carefully place about 6-8 cheese balls into the hot oil at a time. Fry them until they are golden brown on all sides, turning as necessary to ensure even cooking.
7. Drain Excess Oil: Remove the bites with a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil. Continue frying the remaining batches.
8. Serve: Serve the Rattlesnake Bites hot, with your favorite dipping sauce on the side. Ranch, marinara, or a spicy aioli would all complement the flavors beautifully.

Tips and Variations

• Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. A mix of Monterey Jack and mozzarella can add a different flavor profile.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapenos and red pepper flakes according to your spice tolerance. For a milder version, use only one jalapeno and omit the red pepper flakes.
• Dipping Sauces: Try serving with a variety of dipping sauces like a cool ranch, spicy Sriracha mayo, or even a tangy BBQ sauce to enhance the eating experience.
• Make Ahead: These bites can be prepared in advance. Simply roll them, freeze them, and then store in a zip-lock bag. When ready to serve, fry them directly from the freezer.

FAQs

Q: Can I bake the Rattlesnake Bites instead of frying them?
A: Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy. However, they might not be as crunchy as when fried.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: To retain their crunch, reheat the bites in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.

Q: Can I use fresh jalapenos instead of sautéed?
A: Sautéing the jalapenos helps to soften them and blend the flavors better with the cheese. Using fresh may result in a different texture and might be spicier.

Q: How do I prevent the cheese from oozing out while frying?
A: Flash freezing the cheese balls helps them hold their shape better during frying. Also, ensure they are well-coated with flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumbs.

 

 

These Rattlesnake Bites are more than just a snack – they’re a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant flavors of Texas right to your table. Whether you’re hosting a party or just treating yourself, these bites are sure to be a hit. Enjoy!