Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped green chilies
– 1/4 cup chopped jalapeños
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Prepare the cheese mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green chilies, chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth.
2. Chill the cheese mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cheese mixture for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Prepare the breading station: In a shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. In a separate dish, beat the egg for the egg wash.
4. Form the cheese balls: Remove the cheese mixture from the refrigerator and use a small cookie scoop or your hands to form the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 cheese balls.
5. Coat the cheese balls: Dip each cheese ball into the beaten egg and then roll in the breadcrumb mixture to coat. Place the coated cheese ball on a plate or tray. Repeat with the remaining cheese balls.
6. Fry the cheese bites: Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F. Fry the coated cheese balls in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side. Drain the fried cheese bites on paper towels.
7. Serve: Serve the Spicy Texas Rattlesnake Cheese Bites hot and enjoy! You can also serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or salsa.
Tips:
– Make sure to chill the cheese mixture to allow the flavors to meld together.
– Use a thermometer to ensure the oil reaches the correct temperature for frying.
– Don’t overcrowd the skillet when frying the cheese bites. Fry in batches to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly.
Nutrition:
Per serving (assuming 20-25 cheese bites):
– Calories: 120-150
– Fat: 8-10g
– Saturated fat: 4-5g
– Cholesterol: 20-25mg
– Carbohydrates: 6-8g
– Fiber: 0-1g
– Sugar: 1-2g
– Sodium: 100-150mg
Note: Nutrition estimates may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.