Dinner

Fried Jalapeno Popper Bites Recipe

Name: Fried Jalapeno Popper Bites Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese; 3 jalapenos (seeded and diced); ¼ cup chopped bacon; 2 tbsp sriracha sauce; ½ cup all purpose flour; 2 eggs (beaten); ½ cup panko bread crumbs; ½ cup plain bread crumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp cayenne pepper; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp salt; Peanut oil or canola oil (for frying)

ByElla Hart December 10, 2025December 10, 2025

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Introduction

Fried Jalapeno Popper Bites are crispy, cheesy delights bursting with spicy jalapenos and smoky bacon. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for parties or a flavorful appetizer to satisfy your cravings.

The image shows several round, golden-brown crispy balls with a rough, crunchy texture on the outside. One ball is broken open, revealing a creamy, gooey yellow center with bits of green herbs and small pieces of what looks like bacon or savory bits mixed in. The outer crust is thick and crumbly, covering the smooth, rich filling inside. The balls are arranged closely together on a surface with a white marbled texture. The topping on each ball appears lightly sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
3 jalapenos (seeded and diced)
¼ cup chopped bacon
2 tbsp sriracha sauce
½ cup all purpose flour
½ cup panko bread crumbs
½ cup plain bread crumbs
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt
2 eggs (beaten)
Peanut oil or canola oil for frying

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, diced jalapenos, chopped bacon, and sriracha sauce until well combined.
Step 2: Scoop the mixture and form into small balls. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 3: Prepare three separate bowls: one with flour, a second with beaten eggs, and a third with a mix of panko bread crumbs, plain bread crumbs, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
Step 4: Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350˚F (175˚C).
Step 5: Remove the cheese balls from the freezer. Dip each ball first in the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat thoroughly with the bread crumb mixture.
Step 6: Fry several bites at a time for 2–3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 7: Drain the fried bites on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, use smoked bacon or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
Substitute pepper jack cheese with cheddar or mozzarella if you prefer a milder or creamier bite.
Adjust the number of jalapenos to your heat preference, or leave seeds in for extra spice.
Use an air fryer to reduce oil usage while still achieving a crispy coating.

Storage

Store leftover jalapeno popper bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375˚F (190˚C) for 10-15 minutes to keep them crispy instead of microwaving, which can make them soggy.