Fried Jalapeño Popper Bites
Crispy fried bites with a creamy center of cheese, jalapeños, and bacon, perfect for parties or cozy nights in.
Servings: 12 bites
Calories: 150kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 3 jalapeños, seeded and diced
- 1/4 cup chopped cooked turkey bacon
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Peanut oil or canola oil, for frying
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, pepper jack cheese, diced jalapeños, chopped turkey bacon, and sriracha sauce. Mix until smooth and well blended.
- Scoop out small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Place them on a baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
- Set up your breading station by arranging three bowls. Fill one with all-purpose flour, the second with the beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of panko and plain bread crumbs, seasoned with garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
Coating
- Take each frozen ball and dip it first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the seasoned bread crumbs. Make sure each ball is well-coated.
Frying
- Heat oil in a deep pan or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the coated balls to the hot oil, frying them in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
- Once fried, transfer the bites to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serving
- Enjoy your Fried Jalapeño Popper Bites immediately while they are hot, and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or salsa!
Notes
Make ahead by freezing uncoated balls; adjust sriracha for heat preference; can substitute cheese types. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.