Texas Fried Cheese Bites (Printable Version)
Spicy jalapeño chunks mixed with melted pepper jack cheese, rolled into balls, breaded, and fried for a crisp, golden exterior.
# Ingredients:
→ Cheese Mix
01 -
2 to 3 chopped jalapeños (use more for extra heat)
02 -
2 blocks (8 oz each) of pepper jack cheese, grated
→ Coating Ingredients
03 -
1 egg
04 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 -
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
06 -
1 teaspoon paprika
07 -
1 cup milk
08 -
Cooking oil for frying
09 -
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
10 -
1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
# Steps:
01 -
Mix the shredded cheese with the diced jalapeños in a bowl. Using your hands, press and form into tight balls about 1½ inches in size.
02 -
Arrange the balls on a baking sheet and freeze them for 30 minutes. While they chill, warm your fryer to 350°F.
03 -
Set up three containers: one for flour, one for a whisked egg and milk mixture, and a third for breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne.
04 -
Once firm, roll each ball first in the flour, then soak it in the egg and milk blend, and finally cover it thoroughly in the seasoned breadcrumbs.
05 -
Fry the coated balls for 3 to 4 minutes a batch, until they’re golden and crisp.
06 -
Lay the fried balls on paper towels to soak up any extra oil, then serve them warm with your choice of dips.
# Notes:
01 -
Starting with block cheese instead of pre-grated makes these bites more sturdy.
02 -
Freezing stops the cheese from melting too quick when frying.
03 -
These mimic the delicious bites from Texas Roadhouse.
04 -
The combo of spicy jalapeños and gooey cheese makes the ultimate small snack.