Name: Jalapeno Popper Bites
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (113 g) Monterey jack cheese, freshly shredded.; 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature.; 3 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely diced.; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced.; ½ cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour.; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt.; ¼ teaspoon pepper.; 2 large eggs, room temperature.; 2 teaspoons water.; 1 cup (108 g) plain bread crumbs.; ½ teaspoon garlic powder.; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper.; Vegetable or canola oil for frying.

Jalapeno Popper Bites are the perfect appetizer for parties, packed with bold flavors from melted cheese, diced jalapenos, and a crispy coating. The inside is soft and cheesy, while the outside is perfectly golden and crunchy. The combination of Monterey jack cheese and cream cheese creates a smooth and flavorful filling, while the jalapenos add just the right amount of spice. These bite-sized snacks are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve them hot, fresh out of the fryer, for a satisfying, cheesy, and spicy treat that your guests will love!

Jalapeno Popper Bites are a delicious, bite-sized version of everyone’s favorite appetizer. Crispy on the outside and filled with a cheesy, spicy mixture, these bites are sure to be a hit at any party or gathering.

Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create these irresistible Jalapeno Popper Bites.

INGREDIENTS

Monterey Jack Cheese: Freshly shredded Monterey jack cheese melts beautifully and adds a mild, creamy flavor to the filling.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese adds richness and smoothness to the filling, balancing out the spice from the jalapenos.
Jalapeños: Freshly diced jalapenos bring the heat. Adjust the amount or remove the seeds if you prefer a milder flavor.
Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the savory flavor of the filling, pairing perfectly with the cheese and jalapenos.
Flour Mixture: A combination of all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper forms the first layer of coating, helping the breading adhere to the cheese balls.
Egg Mixture: The eggs and water create a sticky base that ensures the bread crumbs adhere to the cheese balls for a crispy finish.
Breading Mixture: Plain bread crumbs seasoned with garlic powder and cayenne pepper form the crispy outer layer of the bites.
Vegetable or Canola Oil: Used for frying, the oil gives the Jalapeno Popper Bites their golden-brown exterior.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: In a large bowl, combine the shredded Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, diced jalapeños, and minced garlic. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
Step 2:: Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the cheese mixture and form it into a tight ball. Place the formed balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat until all of the mixture is used.
Step 3:: Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and chill the cheese balls for 20 to 30 minutes. This step helps the balls hold their shape when frying.
Step 4:: Prepare three wide plates for the coating process. On the first plate, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper. On the second plate, whisk together the eggs and water. On the third plate, whisk together the bread crumbs, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Step 5:: Dredge each cheese ball in the flour mixture, then dip it into the egg mixture, and finally coat it in the bread crumb mixture. Make sure each cheese ball is fully coated after each step.
Step 6:: In a large skillet, heat about ¼ inch of oil over medium heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Working in batches, fry the cheese balls until golden brown on all sides, about 3 minutes.
Step 7:: Once the cheese balls are golden brown, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving: Serve the Jalapeno Popper Bites hot with your favorite dipping sauces. They pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or even a spicy salsa. These bites are great for parties, game day snacks, or as an appetizer before a meal.
Storage: Store any leftover bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.
Freezing: To freeze, arrange the uncooked, breaded cheese balls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

Helpful Notes

Spice Level: Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or fewer jalapenos. If you want an extra kick, leave the seeds in the jalapenos or add more cayenne pepper to the breading mixture.
Cheese Options: While Monterey jack and cream cheese create a smooth filling, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for more heat or cheddar for a sharper flavor.
Frying Tips: Make sure the oil is at the right temperature before frying. If the oil is too hot, the bites may burn on the outside before the inside is fully melted. Use a thermometer to ensure the oil stays at 350°F (175°C).

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Carla suggests adding finely chopped bacon to the filling for an extra smoky flavor that complements the jalapenos.
Chef Max recommends serving the bites with a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy contrast to the cheesy filling.
Chef Laura advises freezing the bites for at least 30 minutes to ensure they hold their shape during frying.