That sounds like a delicious and creative twist on classic fried okra! Here’s how you can make Fried Okra Stuffed with Pepper Jack Cheese—a crispy, cheesy, Southern-inspired appetizer or snack.
Fried Okra Stuffed with Pepper Jack Cheese
Servings: 4 | Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 10 mins
Ingredients:
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Fresh okra – 12-15 pods (medium-sized, firm)
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Pepper Jack cheese – 4 oz, cut into small sticks (about ¼” thick)
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Buttermilk – ½ cup (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
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Hot sauce – 1 tsp (optional)
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Cornmeal – ½ cup
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All-purpose flour – ½ cup
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Cajun seasoning – 1 tsp (or paprika + garlic powder + cayenne)
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Salt & black pepper – to taste
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Oil for frying – Vegetable or peanut oil
Instructions:
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Prep the Okra:
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Wash and dry the okra. Trim the stem ends but keep pods intact.
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Using a small knife, make a slit lengthwise in each okra (don’t cut all the way through).
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Gently remove seeds with a spoon (optional) and stuff each pod with a stick of Pepper Jack cheese. Press to seal.
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Dredging Station:
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Wet Mix: Whisk buttermilk and hot sauce in a bowl.
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Dry Mix: Combine cornmeal, flour, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper in another bowl.
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Bread the Okra:
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Dip each stuffed okra in buttermilk, then roll in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to coat well.
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Place on a tray and let sit for 5 mins (helps coating stick better).
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Fry:
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Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a deep skillet to 350°F (175°C).
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Fry okra in batches for 2-3 mins, turning until golden brown. Don’t overcrowd the pan.
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Drain on a wire rack or paper towels.
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Serve Immediately!
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Best eaten hot so the cheese stays melty. Pair with ranch, remoulade, or spicy aioli.
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Tips:
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Cheese leakage? Freeze cheese sticks for 10 mins before stuffing.
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Air fryer option? Spray breaded okra with oil and air fry at 400°F for 8-10 mins (flip halfway).
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Extra crunch? Add 1 tbsp cornstarch to the dry mix.
This dish is a fun, gooey upgrade to classic fried okra—great for parties or game day! Let me know if you’d like any variations. 😊