Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites

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Are you ready to embark on a flavor-packed adventure that will have your taste buds dancing with delight? These Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites are not only delectable but also incredibly easy to make. They’re perfect for a party appetizer, a savory snack, or even a satisfying meal on their own. Bursting with the flavors of spicy jalapeño, creamy cheese, and aromatic spices, these little bites are sure to become a favorite in your household.

With a crispy exterior and a cheesy, flavorful interior, these bites are a delightful mix of textures that will make you crave more. Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this scrumptious dish that you won’t be able to resist!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites are a fantastic option for gatherings, game nights, or simply when you want to treat yourself to something special. Here are a few reasons why you need to try these:

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of jalapeño, diced tomatoes, and spices creates a mouthwatering flavor that is anything but ordinary.
• Simple Ingredients: You’ll find that the ingredients are easily accessible, and you might even have a few on hand already!
• Versatile: These bites can be served as an appetizer, snack, or even as a side dish alongside your favorite Mexican meal.
• Perfectly Crispy: The breadcrumbs give these bites an irresistible crunch that complements the gooey cheesy center.

Are you intrigued yet? Let’s gather our ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon oil
• ½ onion, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes and chilis
• 1 cup short grain rice
• ½ cup Mexican Queso Quesadilla cheese, cubed (or use mozzarella)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs
• 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Vegetable oil for frying

How To Make Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

First, heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and diced jalapeño, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. The jalapeño will add a lovely kick to the flavor, so feel free to add more if you like it spicy!

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Next, pour in the 3 cups of low-sodium chicken broth along with the 10-ounce can of diced tomatoes and chilis. Bring everything to a boil before adding the short grain rice. Stir well, cover the pot, and lower the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 3: Mix in the Cheese and Cilantro

Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Stir in the cubed Mexican Queso Quesadilla cheese (or mozzarella) and the chopped fresh cilantro. The warmth from the rice will melt the cheese, creating a deliciously gooey filling that you’ll love!

Step 4: Combine with Eggs and Seasoning

In a separate bowl, whisk together the two large eggs and mix in the grated parmesan cheese, chili powder, and cumin. Then, combine this egg mixture with the cheesy rice mixture until everything is well incorporated. The eggs will help bind the ingredients together, giving your bites a perfect texture.

Step 5: Form the Bites

Now it’s time to shape the bites! Take a handful of the mixture (about 2 tablespoons) and form it into a ball. Repeat the process until you’ve used up all the mixture. You can make them as small or as large as you like, but keeping them around a golf ball size works best for cooking evenly.

Step 6: Coat and Fry

Next, roll each rice ball in breadcrumbs until coated evenly, creating that irresistible crunch. In a large skillet, heat enough vegetable oil over medium heat for frying (about ½ inch deep). Once the oil is hot, carefully add the rice bites in batches, frying until golden brown on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 7: Drain and Serve

Once the bites are golden and crispy, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot, and don’t forget your favorite dipping sauce—sour cream, salsa, or guacamole are all fantastic options!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the skillet while frying; this will ensure that the bites cook evenly and become crispy!
• For an even more intense flavor, let the cooked rice mixture sit in the refrigerator for an hour before forming the bites. This allows the flavors to meld together.
• If you want to keep these bites lighter, you can bake them in an oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes instead of frying.
• Experiment with different kinds of cheese! Pepper Jack cheese adds an extra kick, while cheddar cheese offers a rich flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Add protein by mixing in cooked, shredded chicken or ground beef for a heartier version.
• For a vegetarian option, consider adding black beans or corn to the rice mixture.
• Adjust the spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeño or using milder peppers like bell peppers.
• Make these bites gluten-free by substituting regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply preheat your oven to 350°F and warm them for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the oven will keep them crispy.

FAQ

Can I freeze Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites?

Absolutely! After frying, let them cool entirely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container, and they can be stored for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What should I serve with these rice bites?

These bites are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with dipping sauces such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad for a more complete meal.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook. Ensure you check the package instructions for the correct water-to-rice ratio.

How spicy are these bites?

The spiciness can vary based on how much jalapeño you use and whether you include the seeds. If you prefer a milder taste, consider omitting the jalapeño or using a smaller amount. Alternatively, using a sweeter pepper will reduce spiciness.

Conclusion

These Cheesy Mexican Rice Bites are a delightful addition to any meal or gathering. With their cheesy goodness and a hint of spice, these crispy bites are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The versatile nature of this recipe allows you to get creative, whether sticking to the original or adding your personal touch. Gather your ingredients and make a batch today—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite and watch them disappear before your eyes. Happy cooking!