Description
Crunchy Cheese & JalapeƱo Bites are delicious cheesy balls with a spicy kick, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1/4 teaspoon onion salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh jalapeƱos (seeds removed for milder flavor)
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup crispy panko crumbs
- Olive oil spray or vegetable oil for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400Ā°F (200Ā°C) and prepare a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, lightly greased with olive oil spray.
- In a large bowl, mix together the sharp cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, flour, baking soda, garlic salt, onion salt, cayenne pepper, and black pepper until well blended.
- In another bowl, beat the egg and buttermilk together, then gradually add this mixture to the cheese blend, stirring until thoroughly combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped jalapeƱos, ensuring they are evenly mixed throughout the cheesy batter.
- Shape the mixture into small balls, roughly the size of a golf ball, and roll each one in panko crumbs until completely covered.
- Arrange the balls on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring enough space between them.
- Lightly spray the tops of the balls with olive oil to promote a golden crust during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Allow to cool for a few minutes before enjoying.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix in crumbled bacon or chopped chives.
- For a spicier kick, keep some jalapeƱo seeds or add extra cayenne pepper.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ball
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 50mg