Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites
Add Preferred SourceIf you’re craving a little spice with your appetizer game but want to save some cash, these Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites are just what you need. Packed with Pepper Jack cheese and jalapeños, these crispy, fried bites bring that mix of heat and gooey goodness that everyone loves—and making them at home means skipping the restaurant prices.
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I love making these; they are just as good at the restaurants at a fraction of the price. You can make them ahead and cook them when needed, and they are perfect for gameday, movie nights, and the holidays. Give them a try, I think you’ll love them!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
These rattlesnake bites are super easy to make; just follow my simple instructions below.
Form the Cheese Balls
Start by mixing your shredded Pepper Jack cheese with the finely diced jalapeños in a bowl. Once combined, press the mixture into tight 1-inch balls. Give them a good squeeze so they’re really compact.
Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour until they’re solid. This step is key to making sure they hold up while frying.
Set Up the Dredging Station
Next, set up your station. You’ll need three bowls: one with flour, one with the egg whisked with milk, and a third with breadcrumbs mixed with cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Trust me, this coating adds all the crunch and spice you’re looking for.
Coat the Cheese Balls
Grab the frozen cheese balls. First, roll them in the flour, then dip them in the egg mixture, and finally, coat them in the seasoned breadcrumbs.
Make sure each ball is covered completely—this is what will make them extra crispy.
Fry the Rattlesnake Bites
Heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy skillet.
Carefully add the coated cheese balls to the hot oil and fry for about 2-3 minutes until they’re beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on them—they fry fast.
Drain and Cool
Transfer the fried bites to a sheet lined with paper towels to soak up the excess oil.
Let them cool for just a minute before digging in. They’re best enjoyed while hot but not molten.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Pepper Jack cheese shredded
- 2-3 jalapeños diced small
- ¼ cup flour
- 1 egg
- ½ cup milk
- ¾ cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- Combine the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and diced jalapeños in a bowl. Mix well, then press the mixture into tight 1-inch balls. Make sure they’re compact to hold together during frying. Place the balls on a baking sheet and freeze them for about an hour until they become solid.2 cups Pepper Jack cheese, 2-3 jalapeños
- Prepare three bowls for coating: one with flour, another with the egg whisked together with the milk, and the last one with the breadcrumbs mixed with cayenne pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.¼ cup flour, 1 egg, ½ cup milk, ¾ cup bread crumbs, 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Take the frozen cheese balls and dip each one first in the flour, then coat them in the egg mixture, and finally roll them in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure they’re well-covered.
- Heat oil to 350°F in a deep fryer or heavy skillet. Carefully drop the coated cheese balls into the hot oil and fry for 2-3 minutes or until they turn a nice golden brown color.Oil
- Remove the fried bites from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them cool briefly before serving.
Notes
- Freeze Before Frying: Freezing the cheese balls is a game-changer. It helps them hold their shape during frying and keeps the cheese from oozing out.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the oil at 350°F. Too hot and they’ll burn, too cool and they get greasy.
- Squeeze Tight: When forming the balls, make sure to press them tightly. This will help them stay intact when they hit the hot oil.
- Kick It Up a Notch: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix if you like a bit more heat.
- Work Quickly: Coat and fry the cheese balls before they have a chance to thaw completely. This keeps them firm and fry-ready.
- Small Batches for Best Results: Fry in small batches to maintain the right oil temperature and get a consistently crispy finish.
Nutrition
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
Here are my top tips for getting the best rattlesnake bites possible.
- Freeze Before Frying: Freezing the cheese balls is a game-changer. It helps them hold their shape during frying and keeps the cheese from oozing out.
- Oil Temperature Matters: Keep the oil at 350°F. Too hot and they’ll burn, too cool and they get greasy.
- Squeeze Tight: When forming the balls, make sure to press them tightly. This will help them stay intact when they hit the hot oil.
- Kick It Up a Notch: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix if you like a bit more heat.
- Work Quickly: Coat and fry the cheese balls before they have a chance to thaw completely. This keeps them firm and fry-ready.
- Small Batches for Best Results: Fry in small batches to maintain the right oil temperature and get a consistently crispy finish.
How to Store Leftover Rattlesnake Bites
Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
To reheat, pop them in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until hot and crispy again.
Freezing isn’t recommended—it changes the texture, and they’re just not as good.
What to Serve With Rattlesnake Bites
These spicy, cheesy bites shine even more when paired with the right sides and dips.
Serve them with a cooling ranch dip or blue cheese dressing to balance out the heat, or go for something different, like a smoky chipotle aioli or tangy barbecue sauce for an extra flavor punch.
A crisp veggie platter on the side can also offer a nice contrast to the richness of the bites.
More Easy Appetizer Recipes for You to Try at Home
If you’re looking for more appetizer inspiration, try some of my favorites.
Hi. Can you make these in an air fryer? What temp and time would you recommend for that method? Thank you.
Hi Amy! Yes, you can make these in an air fryer. I recommend air frying them at 320°F (160°C) for about 8-10 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they’re crispy and golden. Hope this helps, and enjoy!
Made this for Christmas Eve appetizers and ended up making more. The rattlesnake bite name was so intriguing I had to give it a go since my grandsons would be there. However, I did modify the recipe to not add all of the heat since there would be kids in the audience but let enough in to give it a bite. They were a hit!
I’m so pleased they are a hit and yes, the kids love the name!
I see they can be made in an air fryer, but what about the oven? I tend to cause some serious damage when frying.
excellent recipe-easy to make-easier to eat
I agree, whenever I make it, it gets eaten in no time – I’m so glad you enjoyed it.