Cheddar Jalapeno Bites are crispy little munchies filled with creamy cheddar and a kick from jalapenos. Perfect for snacks or parties, these bites are sure to make everyone smile!
Whenever I make them, they disappear fast. I love serving them with a tasty dip. Just a warning: you might want to keep some for yourself because they’re that good! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a strong, tangy flavor to these bites. For a twist, try using pepper jack cheese for an added kick.
Cream Cheese: This gives a creamy texture to the filling. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese.
Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos add heat. You can use pickled jalapenos for a milder flavor or switch to banana peppers if you prefer no spice at all.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These create a crispy exterior. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs work fine, though they may not be as crunchy.
Flour: Essential for coating the bites before frying. Gluten-free flour can substitute for those with gluten sensitivities.
How Can You Shape and Coat Perfectly?
Shaping and coating these bites can be tricky. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use a small scoop or your hands to make uniform balls. This helps them cook evenly.
- Coating is key for crispiness. Make sure to roll each bite in flour, then dip into beaten eggs, and finish with breadcrumbs.
- If you want an extra crunchy bite, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps.
After coating, refrigerate them for at least 30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape during frying and results in a better texture!
Remember, be patient while frying; doing it in small batches keeps them crispy. You’ll be rewarded with deliciously cheesy jalapeno bites! Enjoy! 🧀🌶️
How to Make Cheddar Jalapeno Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1-2 jalapeno peppers, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
For the Coating:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Frying:
- Oil for frying (vegetable or canola oil)
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 1 hour to prepare, including the time for chilling the bites. You’ll spend about 15 minutes mixing and shaping the ingredients, then 30 minutes chilling them, followed by around 10 minutes of frying. Perfect for a quick snack or party treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, softened cream cheese, finely chopped jalapenos, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. This will be your cheesy, spicy filling!
2. Shape the Bites:
Using your hands or a small scoop, form the cheese mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Keep going until you’ve shaped them all!
3. Prepare for Coating:
Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs. This will keep things organized and make coating the bites easier.
4. Coat the Bites:
Roll each cheese ball in the flour, lightly coating it, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully coated. If you like them extra crispy, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more!
5. Chill the Coated Bites:
Place the coated bites back onto the parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up, making them easier to fry without falling apart.
6. Heat the Oil:
In a deep skillet or deep fryer, heat the oil to 350°F (175°C). Ensure there’s enough oil to completely submerge the bites for even frying.
7. Fry the Bites:
Fry the cheddar jalapeno bites in small batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
8. Drain Excess Oil:
Use a slotted spoon to remove the bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess oil. This keeps them crispy!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired and serve hot with ranch dressing, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauce. Dive in and enjoy your deliciously crispy, gooey Cheddar Jalapeno Bites!
Can I Use Frozen Jalapenos for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen jalapenos! Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess moisture before chopping. This will help maintain the right consistency in your filling.
How Do I Store Leftover Cheddar Jalapeno Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat them, use an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy again.
Can I Bake Instead of Frying the Bites?
Definitely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the bites on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until golden and crispy. While they may not be as crispy as fried, they’ll still be delicious!
What Can I Serve with Cheddar Jalapeno Bites?
These bites pair great with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, sour cream, or guacamole. You can also serve them alongside salsa or a spicy aioli for added flavor!
