Fried Okra Pepper Jack Cheese

Featured in Appetizing Starters.

Fresh okra pods cradle creamy Pepper Jack cheese for a flavorful spin on a beloved Southern classic. The okra is carefully sliced to create space for the cheese, then dipped in buttermilk and coated with a cornmeal-flour mixture spiced with paprika and garlic powder. Once fried to golden perfection, each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by a warm, melty cheese center. This savory treat works beautifully as an appetizer or a unique side, especially when served with a favorite dipping sauce. Customize spice levels or try baking for a lighter version.

Casey
Updated on Thu, 03 Jul 2025 22:54:31 GMT
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This crunchy fried okra stuffed with creamy Pepper Jack cheese is the most-requested party finger food in my home Whenever I want to surprise friends with a nostalgic taste but also give them something unexpected this recipe always steals the show The toasty cornmeal coating pairs perfectly with the spicy melt of cheese inside giving each bite that addictive balance of crisp and gooey comfort

Cheese stuffed okra started as a whim on hot summer days when the garden overflowed with pods I made a batch once for game night and now my friends always expect it when they see okra on my counter

Ingredients

  • Fresh okra pods: choose bright green pods without brown spots for the best flavor and crunch
  • Pepper Jack cheese: use block cheese for smoother melting and more control over size of cheese pieces
  • Buttermilk: coats the okra and helps the breading stick while adding tanginess
  • Cornmeal: gives extra crunch and the classic Southern bite that everyone loves
  • All purpose flour: helps the breading stay tender with the cornmeal
  • Paprika: adds color and a gentle smoky kick
  • Garlic powder: gives a savory depth to the crust
  • Salt: brings out the natural flavors and keeps everything balanced
  • Black pepper: adds just the right background warmth
  • Vegetable oil: is best for frying as it is neutral and handles high heat

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Okra:
Slice each okra pod lengthwise being careful not to cut all the way through You want to create a pocket for your cheese so use a small sharp knife and take your time
Stuff the Okra:
Place a piece of your Pepper Jack cheese gently inside each sliced okra pod Make sure the cheese is snug and avoid forcing the pod open too wide to keep the shape
Coat the Okra:
In one shallow bowl combine cornmeal all purpose flour paprika garlic powder salt and black pepper In another bowl pour your buttermilk Dip each stuffed okra first in the buttermilk letting excess drip off then dredge it in your cornmeal mixture pressing gently so the breading sticks everywhere
Fry the Okra:
Heat oil in a deep skillet or pot to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit That is key for a shatteringly crisp texture Gently lower the breaded okra into the oil frying in batches and turning each piece so you get an even golden color This usually takes two to three minutes per batch Once crisp remove and drain the fried okra on clean paper towels
Serve:
Enjoy while hot Packed with melted cheese and a crunchy crust these are best served warm with your favorite dipping sauce or simply with a sprinkle of extra salt
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Whenever I make these with Pepper Jack cheese I am reminded of my grandma’s summer porch She grew okra and always said a good okra brings family together I love how the cheesy twist makes old traditions feel new again especially when sharing with my own kids

Storage Tips

Fried okra with cheese is best enjoyed the day it is made If you have leftovers cool completely before storing in a paper towel lined airtight container in the fridge To reheat bake at a high temperature around four hundred degrees Fahrenheit for about five minutes to restore crispiness Avoid microwaving as it softens the breading

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Pepper Jack try Monterey Jack for a gentle flavor swap For more spice consider cheddar with a pinch of cayenne in the coating Gluten free flour works in place of all purpose flour if needed and plant based cheese can be used for a dairy free version

Serving Suggestions

Pile these okra bites on a platter with cool ranch or spicy remoulade sauce for dipping They are great alongside barbecue chicken or a salad of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers You can even layer them on sandwiches for a fun crunchy addition

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A Bit of Context

Fried okra has deep roots in Southern cooking It was a way for families to use up extra garden okra and get kids excited about vegetables Stuffing it with cheese is a playful update that brings together classic Southern flavor with modern snack food appeal making it perfect for today’s kitchens

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different cheese instead of Pepper Jack?

Absolutely. Mozzarella or Monterey Jack are milder alternatives that still melt nicely inside the okra.

→ How do I keep the cheese from leaking out while frying?

Carefully slice the okra without splitting it all the way, and press the edges together after stuffing to help seal in the cheese.

→ Is there a way to make this lighter?

You can bake the stuffed okra at 425°F, flipping halfway, for a crisp finish without deep frying.

→ What dipping sauces go well with this dish?

Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or even a spicy remoulade all pair well with cheesy fried okra.

→ How should I serve these stuffed okra pods?

They make a great appetizer, snack, or a flavorful side dish, best enjoyed while hot and crispy.

Fried Okra Pepper Jack Cheese

Golden fried okra stuffed with creamy Pepper Jack adds a spicy, cheesy touch to this crunchy Southern classic.

Prep Time
15 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Casey

Category: Tasty Snacks

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Southern

Yield: About 20 pieces

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 20 fresh okra pods, washed and dried
02 4 oz Pepper Jack cheese, cut into small sticks or cubes
03 1 cup buttermilk
04 1 cup cornmeal
05 ½ cup all-purpose flour
06 1 teaspoon paprika
07 ½ teaspoon garlic powder
08 ½ teaspoon salt
09 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
10 Vegetable oil, for frying

Instructions

Step 01

Carefully slice the okra pods lengthwise without cutting all the way through to create a pocket for the cheese.

Step 02

Insert a small piece of Pepper Jack cheese inside each okra pod. Gently press to close.

Step 03

In a shallow bowl, mix cornmeal, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour buttermilk into another bowl. Dip each stuffed okra into buttermilk, then dredge in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.

Step 04

Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot to 350°F (175°C). Fry okra in batches for 2–3 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.

Step 05

Serve warm as an appetizer or side, with your favorite dipping sauce if desired.

Notes

  1. Cheese alternatives: Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
  2. Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne to the coating mix for extra heat.
  3. Baking option: For a lighter version, bake at 425°F for 15–20 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway.

Tools You'll Need

  • Deep skillet or pot
  • Shallow bowl for coating mixture
  • Paper towels

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy from Pepper Jack cheese and buttermilk.
  • Contains gluten from all-purpose flour.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 210
  • Total Fat: 13.2 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 18.5 g
  • Protein: 4.1 g