These Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are a fun snack worth making! Filled with creamy cheese and spicy jalapeños, they’re crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor!
Every bite is a delightful crunch followed by that cheesy goodness. I like to serve them with ranch dressing for dipping—it’s a treat you won’t forget! 🌶️🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken or Turkey: Either works great! I like using ground chicken for its juiciness, but turkey gives a leaner option. If you want a vegetarian twist, try using crumbled tofu or a meat substitute.
Cream Cheese: This is crucial for creaminess, but you could use Neufchâtel cheese for a lighter version. If lactose is a concern, a dairy-free cream cheese works too!
Monterey Jack Cheese: It melts beautifully! For a spicy kick, I recommend pepper jack. If unavailable, substitute with cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños give a bold flavor. Adjust the heat! For milder bites, replace them with diced bell peppers or use fewer jalapeños.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the perfect crunch, but regular breadcrumbs will work if that’s what you have. You might miss a bit of crispiness, but they’ll still taste yummy!
How Do I Get Crispy Rattlesnake Bites?
Achieving that perfect crispy coating on your rattlesnake bites is essential! Here’s how to make them extra crunchy:
- Start by using panko breadcrumbs—they’re lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs.
- Ensure your oil is hot enough (about 350°F). If it’s too cold, the bites will absorb oil and become greasy.
- Fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pot reduces the oil temperature and can lead to soggy bites.
- Drain on paper towels immediately after frying to remove excess oil and keep them crispy.
With these tips, your rattlesnake bites will be a hit!
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken or ground turkey
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or pepper jack for extra spice)
- 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
For Frying:
- Oil for deep frying (vegetable or canola oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take you approximately 30-40 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend about 15 minutes mixing and forming the bites, followed by around 15-20 minutes of frying them to golden perfection. Enjoy the aroma of these tasty bites while they cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken (or turkey), softened cream cheese, shredded cheese, chopped jalapeños, and green onions. Mix everything well with a spatula or your hands until it’s evenly combined and creamy.
2. Add Seasonings:
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix again until all the seasonings are fully incorporated into the cheesy mixture. This will give each bite wonderful flavor!
3. Shape the Bites:
Using your hands or a small ice cream scoop, form small bite-sized balls (about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter). Arrange them neatly on a tray so they are ready for frying.
4. Set Up Your Breading Station:
Prepare three bowls: one with all-purpose flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko breadcrumbs. This will make coating your bites easy and straightforward.
5. Bread the Bites:
Coat each bite first in flour, making sure it’s evenly covered. Next, dip it in the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a complete coating.
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). To check if the oil is hot enough, drop a small piece of bread into it—if it bubbles and sizzles, you’re ready to fry!
7. Frying Time:
Carefully add the rattlesnake bites in batches, making sure not to crowd the pot. Fry them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. Use a slotted spoon to remove them, letting any excess oil drip off, and place on paper towels to drain.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your hot, crispy, and cheesy rattlesnake bites with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Happy cooking! 🎉
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even ground beef can be used as substitutes for ground chicken. For a vegetarian version, crumbled tofu or a meat substitute like tempeh works well!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder bites, reduce the amount of jalapeños or omit them altogether. Alternatively, you can use milder peppers like bell peppers. For extra heat, consider adding diced serrano peppers or some cayenne pepper to the mixture.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the rattlesnake bites and freeze them before frying. Just freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer, increasing the frying time slightly to ensure they cook through.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, as this will help maintain their crispiness!
