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: First container: Flour. Second container: Whisk together the buttermilk and eggs.
Third container: Mix Panko breadcrumbs, Slap Ya Mama seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.

2. Mix Cheese Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded pepper jack cheese, cheddar cheese, and sautéed jalapeños. Roll the cheese mixture into small bite-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet.

3. Flash Freeze: Place the cheese balls in the freezer for 30-45 minutes to firm up, making them easier to handle during frying.

4. Heat Oil: In a large frying pan or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking (about 350°F or 175°C).

5. Dredge Cheese Balls: Remove the cheese balls from the freezer. One at a time, roll each ball in the flour, dip it into the egg and buttermilk mixture, and then coat it in the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs.

6. Fry the Bites: Fry 6-8 cheese bites at a time in the hot oil. Cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning occasionally (about 2-3 minutes).
Remove the bites using a slotted spoon and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Serve: Work in batches until all the cheese bites are fried. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, spicy mayo, or marinara.

Enjoy these crispy, cheesy jalapeño bites!