Crispy Jalapeño Cheese Bites: A Perfectly Cheesy and Spicy Treat

Photo byAngie Bright

If you love the combination of gooey cheese with a spicy kick, Jalapeño Cheese Bites are the perfect snack for you. These crispy, golden-brown bites are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, watching the big game, or just want a delicious snack, these cheese bites are easy to make and even easier to devour.

Imagine biting into a crispy, golden shell that gives way to a warm, melty center of pepper jack and cheddar cheeses, all infused with the subtle heat of sautéed jalapeños. These bites are like a flavor explosion in your mouth, combining the richness of cheese with the perfect amount of spice. The addition of Cajun seasoning gives the breadcrumbs an extra layer of savory flavor, making each bite even more irresistible.

The process of making these Jalapeño Cheese Bites is as satisfying as the end result. After mixing together the cheeses and jalapeños, you'll roll them into small balls and freeze them, which makes them easier to handle when it’s time to dredge and fry. The dredging process adds another layer of texture, as the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs create a crisp exterior that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy center.

Here’s how you can make these delectable treats at home:

Recipe: Jalapeño Cheese Bites

Ingredients:

• 2 cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 jalapeños, seeds removed, sautéed until soft
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama seasoning (or similar Cajun seasoning)
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1-2 cups vegetable oil (for frying)

Directions:

1. Prepare Dredging Station: Set up three shallow containers. In the first, add flour. In the second, whisk together the buttermilk and eggs. In the third, mix Panko breadcrumbs with Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. Mix Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine shredded pepper jack cheese, cheddar cheese, and sautéed jalapeños. Roll this mixture into bite-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet.
3. Flash Freeze: Freeze the cheese balls for 30-45 minutes to firm them up, making them easier to fry.
4. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat to about 350°F (175°C).
5. Dredge Cheese Balls: Take the cheese balls out of the freezer. Coat each ball in flour, then dip it in the buttermilk and egg mixture, and finally roll it in the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs.
6. Fry the Bites: Fry the cheese balls in batches (6-8 at a time) until they are golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Turn them occasionally for even cooking. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve: Once all the cheese bites are fried, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, spicy mayo, or marinara.

These Jalapeño Cheese Bites are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual get-togethers to game day parties. Their crunchy exterior and melty, spicy interior make them an appetizer that’s hard to resist. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce to customize the flavor to your liking. Whether you’re a spice lover or just a fan of cheesy goodness, these bites will definitely become a go-to snack.

Here are some great sources for your Jalapeño Cheese Bites recipe that involve the use of Slap Ya Mama Cajun seasoning and Cajun-inspired flavors:

1. Blend of Bites offers a quick and easy Slap Ya Mama seasoning recipe that highlights the signature flavors of garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and paprika, perfect for enhancing fried cheese bites with a touch of Cajun heat​Blend of Bites.
2. Kitchen Easy Life provides insight into the Walker family's legacy, the creators of Slap Ya Mama seasoning, and shares a recipe that balances heat and bold spices such as oregano and thyme, which are great for flavoring breadcrumbs used in your cheese bites​Kitchen Easy Life.
3. Munchyesta shares a detailed homemade Cajun seasoning recipe, including red pepper flakes and smoked paprika, which could add a deeper, smoky flavor to your cheese bites​Munchyesta.

These sources provide different ways to either make or enhance the flavor profile of your Jalapeño Cheese Bites with the bold, spicy notes of Cajun seasoning. You can easily incorporate this seasoning into your breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick!