Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites

Make crispy, spicy Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites with a perfect blend of heat and flavor. A quick, delicious snack for any occasion!

Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites are a bold, flavorful snack that packs a punch with every bite. These bite-sized treats are typically made by stuffing jalapeño peppers with cheese and seasoning, then coating them in a crispy breading before air frying.

The result is a perfect combination of creamy cheese, a hint of heat from the jalapeños, and a crunchy, golden exterior. They’re quick and easy to make in the air fryer, making them an ideal snack or appetizer for parties, game nights, or just when you’re craving something savory and spicy.

Ever since I made my first batch of Air Fryer Texas Roadhouse Deep-Fried Pickles, I have wanted to make this dish, and today was the day, to my family’s delight!

What Are Texas Road House Rattlesnake Bites

Much to everyone’s delight, they do not contain any Rattlesnake parts. (A common question, according to the Internet)

According to the Texas Roadhouse Menu, they are a fried ball that contains jalapeno and cheese and are then fried up. Typically it is served with a Cajun Horseradish Sauce. Your Rattlesnake Bites will be deep-fried if you go to a Texas Roadhouse. Today, I took it up and prepared them in my air fryer.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Spicy Kick: Jalapeños add the perfect level of heat.
• Cheesy Delight: Creamy cheese filling oozes with every bite.
• Crispy Texture: Air frying creates a golden, crispy exterior.
• Quick & Easy: Simple to prepare in under 30 minutes.
• Flavor Packed: A bold blend of cheese, spice, and crunch.
• Customizable: Adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Parties: Ideal appetizer for any gathering or snack.
• Kid-Friendly: Great for kids who love cheesy, spicy snacks.

Ingredients Needed

• Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a spicy kick and bold flavor to the filling, enhancing the overall taste of the rattlesnake bites.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: Provides a creamy and mild flavor that complements the spiciness of the Pepper Jack, creating a balanced cheese filling.
• Cream Cheese: This contributes to the creamy texture of the filling and helps bind the ingredients together, ensuring a smooth consistency.
• Jalapenos: Infuse the filling with heat and a distinctive jalapeno flavor, giving the rattlesnake bites a deliciously fiery edge.
• All-Purpose Flour: Coats the stuffed jalapenos before dipping them in egg, helping the breading adhere and providing a crispy exterior when fried.
• Eggs: Serve as a binding agent for the breading, ensuring it adheres well to the stuffed jalapenos during frying, resulting in a golden and crispy finish.
• Bread Crumbs: When fried, they provide a crunchy, golden-brown coating, adding texture and enhancing the overall mouthfeel of the rattlesnake bites.
• Cayenne Pepper: Enhances the heat level and adds depth of flavor to the breading, contributing a spicy kick to each bite.

How To Make Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites

Step One: Mix the shredded cheese, cream cheese, and diced jalapenos in a large bowl. Mix well.

Step Two: Use your hands to form about 1 to 1 1/2 balls, squeezing tightly. Continue until you have used all of the cheese/jalapeno mixtures.

Step Three: Place the balls on a piece of parchment paper on a baking sheet. Pop the baking sheet into the freezer until the cheese balls are frozen solid (about 30 to 60 minutes)

Step Four: Set up your breading station. You will need three small bowls. In one bowl, add the flour and cayenne pepper. In the second bowl, add the eggs (whisk them with a fork), and in the third bowl, add the bread crumbs.

Step Five: Then coat the cheese balls with the flour, the egg, and bread crumbs.

Step Six: Spray your air fryer basket with cooking spray. As you coat your cheeseballs, add them to the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. Spray the coating GENEROUSLY with cooking spray. Set the air fryer temperature to 350 degrees F and set the air fryer cook time for 5-8 minutes.

Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites Recipe Tips

• Freeze the Bites: Freezing the cheese balls before air frying helps them hold their shape and prevents the cheese from melting out during cooking.
• Don’t Skip the Cooking Spray: Make sure to generously spray the coated cheese balls with cooking spray before air frying. This ensures a crispy, golden crust.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder version, use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds. For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
• Cook in Batches: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the rattlesnake bites in batches. Don’t overcrowd the basket to ensure they cook evenly.
• Shake for Even Crispiness: Halfway through the cooking time, shake the basket or flip the bites for an even, crispy texture on all sides.
• Serve with Dips: These bites pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy dip for an extra kick.

Storing

• Storing: Store leftover Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain their texture.
• Freezing: To freeze, place the uncooked breaded cheese balls on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until crispy and heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make them soggy.

What To Serve With Homemade Rattlesnake Bites

Homemade Rattlesnake Bites are a flavorful, spicy snack that pairs perfectly with a variety of dips and sides. Serve them with creamy ranch dressing, cool sour cream, or tangy blue cheese dip to balance the heat. They also go great with a side of crispy fries, a fresh salad, or even some crunchy vegetables like carrot sticks and celery for a well-rounded meal or appetizer. Whether you’re enjoying them as a snack or part of a larger spread, Rattlesnake Bites are sure to be a hit!

Air Fryer Rattlesnake Bites Recipe Faqs

Can I use a different type of cheese for the filling? Yes, you can substitute the cheese for your favorite variety, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

How can I make Rattlesnake Bites less spicy? To reduce the heat, use fewer jalapeños or remove the seeds from the peppers. You can also replace jalapeños with a milder pepper like a bell pepper.

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare and freeze the cheese balls ahead of time. Simply freeze them until solid and cook them when you’re ready to enjoy.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during cooking? Freezing the cheese balls before air frying helps them maintain their shape and prevents the cheese from melting out during cooking.

Can I bake these in the oven instead of using the air fryer? Yes, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy.

How do I know when Rattlesnake Bites are done cooking? When the coating is golden and crispy, and the cheese is oozing out slightly, they’re done. Make sure they’re cooked all the way through by checking the center.

Can I serve these with a dip? Absolutely! Rattlesnake Bites pair wonderfully with dips like ranch dressing, sour cream, or a spicy salsa for extra flavor.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• AIR FRYER STRAWBERRY MASCARPONE BRUSCHETTA
• EASY AIR FRYER FROZEN COCONUT SHRIMP
• AIR FRYER TRADER JOE’S CAULIFLOWER PANCAKES

Don’t Forget To Pin!

Share Your Creations! Are you active on Facebook? Join our Air Fryer Recipes Group, where hundreds of thousands of Air Fryer enthusiasts gather and share your photos! I’m always thrilled to see what you’ve made. For those on Instagram, don’t forget to tag me @forktospoon – I can’t wait to admire your culinary adventures!​