Crispy Avocado Bacon Cheese Bites (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Filling
01 -
2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
02 -
3 large avocados, diced small
03 -
1 pound bacon, crisp and crumbled
04 -
1 cup Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
05 -
1 cup Pepper Jack cheese, shredded
06 -
½ cup diced pickled jalapeños
07 -
½ cup green onions, sliced
08 -
½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
09 -
¼ cup red onions, diced
→ Seasonings
10 -
1 teaspoon garlic salt
11 -
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
12 -
½ teaspoon black pepper
13 -
1 teaspoon lime juice
→ Coating
14 -
1 cup buttermilk
15 -
1 egg
16 -
1 cup all-purpose flour
17 -
1-2 cups Panko bread crumbs
18 -
2+ cups vegetable oil for frying
# Instructions:
01 -
Fry bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels, let cool, then crumble into small pieces.
02 -
Beat cream cheese in a large bowl for 2-3 minutes until creamy. Add all remaining filling ingredients except avocados and stir well. Gently fold in diced avocados last.
03 -
Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour to firm up the mixture.
04 -
Place flour, whisked buttermilk and egg mixture, and bread crumbs in three separate bowls.
05 -
Shape tablespoons of mixture into balls. Roll each in flour, then buttermilk mixture, then bread crumbs. Place on freezer-safe baking sheet.
06 -
Place coated balls in freezer for about an hour to help them hold shape while frying.
07 -
Heat oil to 350°F in a large heavy-bottomed pan. Fry 6-8 balls at a time until golden brown, about 2 minutes, turning frequently. Drain on paper towels.
# Notes:
01 -
Can be prepared ahead and frozen before frying
02 -
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce
03 -
Turn frequently while frying for even browning