Name: Appetizer
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb flank steak.; 1 tablespoon olive oil.; 1 teaspoon salt.; 1 teaspoon pepper.; 1 teaspoon cumin.; 1 teaspoon chili powder.; 4 cloves garlic, chopped.; 1 yellow onion, chopped.; 3 bell peppers, seeded, diced.; 9 medium flour tortillas.; 3 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend.; 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, sliced into 1-inch pieces.; 18 tortilla chips.; 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped.

Steak Fajita Crunch Bombs are an explosion of flavors in every bite. These appetizers feature tender, seasoned flank steak combined with sautéed bell peppers and onions, all wrapped in a tortilla with a crunchy cheese center. The tortillas are filled with a delicious mix of Mexican cheese blend, Monterey Jack cheese, and tortilla chips for an extra crunch. Perfect for parties or a fun family snack, these bombs are sure to impress.

Welcome to a world of savory indulgence with our Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a cozy night in, or looking for a delectable appetizer to impress your guests. Combining the creamy richness of cream cheese and avocado with the crispy goodness of bacon, these bites are sure to be a hit. The addition of sharp cheddar, pepper jack cheese, and a hint of jalapeno gives these bites an extra kick, making them irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create these mouthwatering Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites:

For The Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Filling:

(2) 8 oz packages cream cheese, softened: Provides a creamy base for the filling.
3 large avocados, diced small: Adds a rich and buttery texture.
1 lb bacon, crisp and crumbled: Adds a savory and crunchy element.
1 cup sharp cheddar, shredded: Contributes a tangy flavor.
1 cup pepper jack, shredded: Adds a spicy kick.
½ cup diced jalapenos: Use diced pickled jalapenos from a jar for an extra zesty flavor.
½ cup green onions, sliced: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor.
½ cup cilantro, chopped: Provides a fresh and herbal note.
¼ cup red onions, diced: Adds a bit of sharpness and color.
1 tsp garlic salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
½ tsp Cajun seasoning: Adds a bit of spice and complexity.
½ tsp pepper: Provides a subtle heat.
1 tsp lime juice: Adds a tangy brightness to balance the flavors.

For The Coating:

1 cup buttermilk: Helps the coating adhere to the bites.
1 egg: Acts as a binder for the coating.
1 cup flour: Creates the initial layer for the coating.
1-2 cups Panko bread crumbs: Provides a crispy outer layer.
2+ cups vegetable oil: For frying the bites to a golden brown perfection.

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and satisfying appetizer that will be the star of your next gathering.

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites. Each step is carefully designed to ensure your bites are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside.

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

Fry bacon until crispy then place it on a plate lined with paper towels. Once cool enough to handle, crumble and set aside. This will add a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to your bites.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese for 2-3 minutes on medium speed until creamy. This will ensure your filling is smooth and well-blended.

Add the shredded sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheeses, diced jalapenos, sliced green onions, chopped cilantro, diced red onions, garlic salt, Cajun seasoning, pepper, and lime juice to the bowl. Stir until well combined.
Gently fold in the diced avocados, being careful not to mash them. The avocados should retain their shape for the best texture.

Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for an hour. This will help the filling firm up and make it easier to form into balls.

Step 3: Form the Bites

After chilling, form about a tablespoon of the mixture into a ball. Roll each ball in flour, then dip into the buttermilk and egg mixture, and finally coat with Panko bread crumbs. Place the coated balls on a baking sheet that will fit into the freezer.

Flash freeze for about an hour. This will help the bites hold their shape while frying, ensuring they stay intact and don’t fall apart in the oil.

Step 4: Fry the Bites

Using a large cast iron pan or heavy-bottom pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat to 350°F. The oil should be hot enough to fry the bites quickly without making them greasy.

Place approximately 6-8 balls in the frying pan and fry until golden brown, turning frequently. This should take about 2 minutes. Remove the bites from the oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve Warm

Serve the Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Options include ranch dressing, spicy mayo, or a tangy salsa. These bites are best enjoyed fresh and hot, right after frying.

By following these steps, you’ll create a delightful appetizer that combines creamy, crunchy, and savory elements in every bite. Perfect for parties, game days, or any time you want to impress your guests with a unique and delicious treat.

Serving and Storage Tips

Maximize the enjoyment of your Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites with these serving and storage tips. Learn how to keep them fresh and delicious, along with some helpful notes and variations.

Serving Tips

Serve Warm: These bites are best enjoyed warm, right after frying. The crispy exterior and creamy interior are at their peak when served hot.
Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces to complement the flavors. Popular choices include ranch dressing, spicy mayo, chipotle sauce, and tangy salsa.
Garnish: For an extra touch, garnish the serving platter with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. This not only adds color but also enhances the presentation.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the bites on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help retain their crispy texture.
Freezing: You can also freeze the uncooked bites. After flash freezing them on a baking sheet, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 1 month. Fry them directly from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the frying time.

Helpful Notes and Variations

Customize your Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites with these variations and tips to suit your taste preferences:

Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit more heat, add extra diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even blue cheese for a unique flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add finely chopped sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Here are some insights from well-known chefs to enhance your cooking experience:

"Balancing flavors and textures is key to making an appetizer that stands out. The creamy filling and crispy coating in these bites are a perfect example." - Chef Ina Garten

"Don't be afraid to experiment with ingredients. Personalizing a recipe to your taste is what cooking is all about." - Chef Gordon Ramsay

With these serving, storage tips, and helpful notes, your Cream Cheese Avocado Bacon Bites will be a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering. Enjoy the blend of flavors and textures that make this recipe a standout.