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easy Cheesy Jalapeno Balls Recipe

Cheesy Jalapeno Balls are crispy fried appetizers made with cream cheese, pepper jack cheese, and fresh jalapenos.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 3 jalapenos seeded and diced
  • ¼ cup chopped turkey ham
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup panko bread crumbs
  • ½ cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • Peanut oil or canola oil for frying

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, diced jalapenos, chopped turkey ham, and sriracha sauce until fully combined.
  • Scoop portions of the mixture and roll into evenly sized balls.
  • Arrange the balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 30 minutes.
  • Place the flour in one bowl and the beaten eggs in a second bowl.
  • In a third bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, plain bread crumbs, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
  • Heat oil in a deep fryer or large heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C).
  • Remove the chilled balls from the freezer.
  • Coat each ball in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and then roll in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
  • Carefully fry the Cheesy Jalapeno Balls in batches for 2–3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
  • Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • Serve with ranch dressing, garlic sauce, or spicy mayo.
  • These make excellent game-day snacks and party appetizers.
  • Add finely chopped green onions for extra flavor.
  • Adjust the sriracha amount according to your heat preference.