How spicy are jalapeno popper bites?

The heat level of jalapeno popper bites is moderate. Fresh jalapeños offer a noticeable kick, but the cream cheese and Monterey Jack balance the spiciness. For less heat, remove all seeds and ribs from the peppers, or substitute with milder green chilies.

Can I make jalapeno popper bites ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling, shape the bites, and freeze them for up to 1 month before frying. This makes jalapeno popper bites perfect for parties or last-minute snacks. Just fry them straight from the freezer—no need to thaw.

Can I bake or air fry instead of deep frying?

Absolutely. To bake, preheat your oven to 400°F, place the breaded bites on a greased baking sheet, and bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. For air frying, cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. Both methods reduce oil but still deliver a crispy finish.

Jalapeno Popper Bites – Best Party Snack Ever

Name: Jalapeno Popper Bites
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup (113 g) Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded; 4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, room temperature; 3 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely diced; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; 1/2 cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons water; 1 cup (108 g) plain bread crumbs; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper; Vegetable or canola oil, for frying; Optional: 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (for extra flavor)

Description

These Jalapeno Popper Bites are crispy on the outside, creamy and spicy on the inside. Perfect for parties, game nights, or when you’re craving a cheesy, crowd-pleasing appetizer. Easy to make ahead and freeze for convenient frying anytime.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (113 g) Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
4 oz (113 g) cream cheese, room temperature
3 medium jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1/2 cup (62.5 g) all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, room temperature
2 teaspoons water
1 cup (108 g) plain bread crumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
Optional: 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (for extra flavor)

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Instructions

In a large bowl, mix together the Monterey Jack cheese, cream cheese, diced jalapeños, minced garlic, and optional cooked bacon until well combined.
Scoop about 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form it into a tight ball. Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Repeat until all the mixture is used. Freeze the balls for 20–30 minutes to firm up.
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, salt, and pepper; the second with whisked eggs and water; the third with bread crumbs, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
Coat each frozen cheese ball first in the flour mixture, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally roll in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
Heat 1/4 inch of vegetable or canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat to about 350°F (175°C).
Fry the bites in batches, turning occasionally, for about 3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on all sides.
Transfer the bites to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For less heat, remove all seeds and ribs from the jalapeños or substitute with mild green chilies.
You can make the bites ahead and freeze them before frying. No need to thaw before frying.
To bake instead of frying, place on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes.
For extra crunch, double-dip in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 3 bites
Calories: 220
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 40mg