Looking for the perfect game-day snack? These Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are packed with gooey cheese, a kick of jalapeño heat, and a crispy golden crust. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving a flavorful appetizer, these bites will be the first to disappear from the snack table!
Why You’ll Love These Rattlesnake Bites
Cheese and jalapeños are a match made in heaven, and these crispy bites prove it! Even those who aren’t fans of super spicy foods love them because the heat is just right—enough for bold flavor without being overwhelming. Every time I make these, they vanish in minutes!
Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and you’ve got a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Cheese & Spice
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar (or substitute Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Swiss for a twist!)
- 2 jalapeños, finely diced (remove seeds for milder bites, or leave them in for extra heat)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Crispy Coating
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
For Frying
- Vegetable oil or your favorite frying oil
How to Make Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
1: Mix & Shape the Cheese Balls
In a large bowl, combine the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, diced jalapeños, and minced garlic. Mix well, then form into 10 small balls, squeezing tightly so they hold their shape. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for at least 4 hours.
2: Set Up the Breading Station
Heat oil in a saucepan to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, prepare three bowls:
- 1: Flour
- 2: Beaten eggs mixed with milk
- 3: Panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, and salt
3: Coat & Fry
Dip each frozen cheese ball into the flour, then the egg wash, and finally the breadcrumb mixture. Carefully fry in the hot oil for about 2 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4: Drain & Serve
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bites to a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces!
Tips for the Best Rattlesnake Bites
- Want more spice? Swap some of the white cheddar for Pepper Jack or Habanero Jack cheese.
- Handling jalapeños? Wear gloves if you’re sensitive to spice, or use pre-sliced, jarred jalapeños for convenience.
Storing leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an air fryer or oven to keep them crispy.
What to Serve with Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
A great appetizer lineup makes every gathering better! Here are a few delicious pairings:
- Bloody Marys – A classic game-day drink with all your favorite fixings.
- Chewy Monster Cookies – Because no party is complete without a sweet treat!
- Buffalo Chicken Dip – Another must-have for your appetizer spread.
Best Dipping Sauces for Rattlesnake Bites
These bites are delicious on their own, but dipping sauces take them to the next level! Here are some favorites:
- Ranch Dip or Jalapeño Ranch – A classic, creamy pairing.
- Cajun Horseradish Sauce – Inspired by Texas Roadhouse, this zesty sauce is a must-try.
- Seasoned Sour Cream – A tangy, flavorful option.
- Spicy Remoulade – Perfect for those who love a little extra kick.
No sauce? No problem! These bites are so good, they might be gone before you even grab the dip!
FAQ: Do Rattlesnake Bites Contain Real Rattlesnake?
Nope! Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites don’t contain any actual rattlesnake. The name simply comes from the spicy “bite” of the jalapeños. However, if you swap in a hotter cheese, you might just feel the bite linger a little longer!
More Game-Day Appetizers to Try
- 15+ Delicious and Easy Appetizer Recipes
- Veggie Pizza: A Delicious and Easy Appetizer Recipe
- Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake Recipe
Make your next gathering unforgettable with these crispy, cheesy, and slightly spicy Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites—they’re guaranteed to be a hit! 🍽🔥
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese shredded see note
- 2 jalapenos seeded and minced
- 1 clove garlic minced
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil or other neutral oil for frying
- Ranch dressing for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, stir together the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, jalapenos, and garlic until evenly combined.
- Form the cheese mixture into 10 balls by using your hands to squeeze the mixture together as tightly as possible. Place the balls on a baking sheet and freeze for 4 hours. (Do not skip the freezing step.)
- Pour the oil into a medium saucepan until it comes 1 inch up the sides. Place over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350 degrees F. (You will need to fry in batches.)
- To prepare the breading station, place the flour in one bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together in another bowl, and then stir together the panko, smoked paprika, and salt in a third bowl.
- Roll each of the frozen cheese balls first in the flour, then in the egg wash, and finally in the bread crumbs.
- Fry the bites for 2 minutes on each side, or until they have a golden brown on the outside and soft melty cheese on the inside. Carefully remove with tongs or a slotted spoon and allow to drain on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate.
- Serve immediately with some ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes
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