These crispy, cheesy balls of joy are just like the Rattlesnake Bites from Texas Roadhouse! Filled with cream cheese, jalapeños, and zesty spices, they pack a delicious punch.
Every bite is a little spicy and super cheesy—perfect for snacking with friends or as a fun appetizer. Trust me, even I can’t stop at just one! 🙈
I love to serve mine with a cool dipping sauce for a tasty combo. Making these at home is way easier than you’d think—my taste buds are always happy about that!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This creamy base adds a rich texture. If you’re dairy-free, try using a vegan cream cheese alternative for a similar effect!
Monterey Jack Cheese: For that gooey goodness, Monterey Jack is perfect, but feel free to swap in cheddar for a sharper taste or pepper jack for extra spice.
Jalapeños: Adjust the spice level with these! If you want less heat, use mild jalapeños or substitute with diced bell peppers for a sweet crunch.
Ground Sausage: Adding cooked sausage boosts flavor, but you can skip it or use a meat alternative if desired. Cooked bacon bits are another tasty option!
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat. If you prefer a milder flavor, leave it out or use a dash of paprika instead.
How Do I Keep My Rattlesnake Bites from Falling Apart While Frying?
To ensure your bites stay together, it’s crucial to chill the mixture before frying. Here’s how to make it easier:
- Mix the filling thoroughly so it binds well.
- Form the balls and then refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up.
- When breading, ensure they’re coated well; this forms a protective layer that helps them hold shape during frying.
- Fry in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause them to break apart.
Taking these steps will make your cooking experience smoother and delicious!
Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites Copycat Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup diced pickled jalapeños (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup diced cooked ground sausage (optional for added flavor)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- For the Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious snack will take about 15 minutes for preparation, plus 30 minutes of chilling time and about 10 minutes of frying time. So, in total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes to have these tasty bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Filling:
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, diced jalapeños, cooked ground sausage (if using), chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper. Mix everything together well until it’s smooth and fully combined.
2. Shaping the Bites:
Take the filling mixture and shape it into small balls, around 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the balls on a baking sheet or tray and refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up and keep their shape when frying.
3. Preparing the Breading Stations:
While the bites chill, get your breading stations ready. In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs together. In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, cornmeal, smoked paprika, and salt.
4. Heating the Oil:
In a deep skillet or pot, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Use a frying thermometer to make sure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
5. Coating the Bites:
Once the bites have chilled, remove them from the refrigerator. Dip each ball into the egg mixture first, allowing any excess to drip off. Then roll the ball in the flour and cornmeal mixture until it is evenly coated. For a crunchier texture, you can repeat this step by dipping the balls back into the egg followed by the dry mixture once more.
6. Frying the Bites:
Carefully place the coated bites into the hot oil in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes or until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
7. Draining Excess Oil:
Using a slotted spoon, transfer the fried rattlesnake bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. This helps to keep them crispy and not greasy.
8. Serving:
Serve the bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch dressing or a cool chipotle mayo. Enjoy your homemade Texas Roadhouse style rattlesnake bites—crispy, cheesy, and with just the right amount of spicy kick!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Fresh Jalapeños Instead of Pickled Ones?
Absolutely! If you prefer fresh jalapeños, you can dice them up and add them to the filling. Just keep in mind that fresh jalapeños will bring a different flavor profile and can be spicier, so adjust the quantity to your taste.
Can I Make Rattlesnake Bites Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling and shape the bites a day ahead and refrigerate them. Just bread and fry them right before serving to ensure they stay crispy and fresh!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Rattlesnake Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy again.
What Dipping Sauces Pair Well with Rattlesnake Bites?
Rattlesnake bites go wonderfully with ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or a simple honey mustard. Feel free to experiment with your favorite sauces to find the perfect match!
