Saltgrass Range Rattlers Recipe

If you’ve ever dined at Saltgrass Steakhouse and fallen in love with their famous saltgrass range rattlers, you’re not alone! These crispy, flavorful shrimp bites have become a cult favorite appetizer.

The range rattlers saltgrass recipe combines succulent shrimp wrapped in a fragrant Asian-inspired filling, then coated in vibrant orange breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection. Also known as saltgrass rattlesnake bites, these aren’t made with actual rattlesnake-just jumbo shrimp that pack a serious flavor punch.

Today, I’m sharing how to recreate these restaurant-quality range rattlers right in your own kitchen, with every crispy, juicy bite tasting just like the original.

What Does It Taste Like?

The saltgrass range rattlers deliver an incredible fusion of flavors and textures. Each bite starts with an audible crunch from the golden-orange coating, giving way to tender, succulent shrimp beneath.

The filling bursts with fresh herbs-cilantro, mint, and lemongrass-balanced by subtle umami notes from fish sauce and soy sauce. There’s a gentle heat from green chilies that tingles without overwhelming, while the shrimp itself remains sweet and juicy.

The combination creates a Thai-inspired flavor profile that’s aromatic, slightly spicy, herbaceous, and utterly addictive. It’s no wonder these range rattlers saltgrass appetizers disappear within minutes at any gathering!

Saltgrass Range Rattlers Recipe Ingredients

The Shrimp and Filling:

• 9–10 large shrimp, peeled & deveined (tail on)
• 1 cup shrimp paste
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onions
• 2 tbsp chopped green chili (jalapeño or serrano)
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander (cilantro)
• 2 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
• 1 tbsp finely chopped lemongrass (white part only)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp fish sauce
• 1/2 tsp oyster sauce
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp tasting salt
• 1/2 tsp regular salt
• 1/2 cup white breadcrumbs

For Coating:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 whisked egg
• 1/2 cup orange breadcrumbs (or panko with orange food coloring)

For Frying:

• Oil for frying (vegetable or canola)

Kitchen Utensils

1. Large mixing bowl
2. 3 shallow bowls (for breading station)
3. Sharp knife and cutting board
4. Measuring cups and spoons
5. Deep frying pan or skillet
6. Slotted spoon or tongs
7. Paper towels
8. Plate for draining

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 9-10 pieces (3-4 servings as appetizer)

Copycat Saltgrass Range Rattlers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp carefully, but leave the tail on. The tail acts as a natural handle and gives your saltgrass rattlesnake bites that signature restaurant presentation.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine 1 cup shrimp paste, 1/3 cup finely chopped onions, 2 tbsp chopped green chili, 2 tbsp chopped coriander, 2 tbsp mint, 1 tbsp finely chopped lemongrass, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp fish sauce, 1/2 tsp oyster sauce, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp tasting salt, and 1/2 tsp regular salt. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined and aromatic.

Step 3: Add Breadcrumbs to Filling

Pour in 1/2 cup white breadcrumbs and mix again until incorporated. The filling should be sticky enough to hold its shape but not runny or loose.

Step 4: Stuff the Shrimp

Take one prepared shrimp and spoon a generous amount of the mixture on top, gently shaping it around the shrimp body. Cover the entire shrimp except for the tail, which should remain exposed. Repeat this process for all remaining shrimp.

Step 5: Set Up Breading Station

Arrange three shallow bowls in a row. Place flour in the first bowl, whisked egg in the second, and orange breadcrumbs in the third.

Step 6: Coat the Range Rattlers

First, roll each stuffed shrimp in flour, coating completely. Next, dip into the whisked egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, roll in orange breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.

Step 7: Heat the Oil

Pour enough oil into your frying pan to cover at least half the height of the shrimp. Heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking (around 350°F/175°C).

Step 8: Fry to Golden Perfection

Carefully place the breaded shrimp in the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry on medium-low heat for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn them gently, ensuring even cooking.

Step 9: Drain and Serve

Remove the range rattlers from oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for about a minute, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Spice Level Variations
Adjust the heat in your saltgrass range rattlers by using milder poblano peppers instead of jalapeños for a family-friendly version, or amp it up with Thai bird’s eye chilies for serious heat lovers. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling mixture.

2. Dipping Sauce Pairings
These range rattlers saltgrass style shrimp pair beautifully with sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, garlic aioli, or a tangy Thai peanut sauce. For an authentic steakhouse experience, try a zesty remoulade or comeback sauce with a hint of horseradish.

3. Alternative Proteins
While traditional saltgrass rattlesnake bites use shrimp, you can substitute with chunks of firm white fish like cod or halibut, or even chicken breast strips for a different take on this beloved appetizer.

4. Breadcrumb Color Options
Can’t find orange breadcrumbs? Mix regular panko with paprika for a natural orange hue, or use golden breadcrumbs seasoned with turmeric. Some home cooks prefer leaving them white for a classic fried shrimp appearance.

5. Herb Substitutions
If lemongrass is hard to find, substitute with lemon zest and a touch of ginger. Swap mint for Thai basil for a more traditional Southeast Asian flavor profile that complements the range rattlers beautifully.

6. Serving Presentation Ideas
Arrange your saltgrass range rattlers recipe creation on a platter over shredded lettuce with lime wedges, fresh cilantro sprigs, and sliced chilies for a restaurant-worthy presentation. Serve with multiple dipping sauces in small bowls.

7. Complete Meal Pairing
These make an excellent appetizer before grilled steaks, coconut curry, or pad Thai. They also work wonderfully as part of an Asian-fusion tapas spread alongside spring rolls, satay skewers, and dumplings.

Essential Tips for Perfect Range Rattlers

1. Choose Quality Shrimp
The foundation of great saltgrass range rattlers starts with selecting fresh, large shrimp (16-20 count per pound works best). Fresh shrimp have a mild ocean scent and firm texture. Avoid any with ammonia smell or mushy texture, as these won’t hold up during frying.

2. Dry Your Shrimp Thoroughly
Before stuffing, pat your shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture prevents the filling from adhering properly and can cause the breading to fall off during frying. This simple step makes a huge difference in achieving that professional range rattlers saltgrass quality.

3. Don’t Skip the Lemongrass
Lemongrass is essential for that authentic citrusy, aromatic flavor that distinguishes these from regular fried shrimp. Use only the tender white part near the base, and mince it very finely so you don’t get fibrous pieces in your saltgrass rattlesnake bites.

4. Keep Filling Consistency Right
The shrimp paste mixture should be sticky and moldable, similar to meatball consistency. If it’s too wet, add more breadcrumbs gradually. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water or egg white. Proper consistency ensures your range rattlers hold together during coating and frying.

5. Maintain Oil Temperature
Use a thermometer to keep oil at 350°F (175°C). Too hot, and your saltgrass range rattlers will brown too quickly while staying raw inside. Too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil and become greasy. Medium-low heat with careful monitoring produces the best results.

6. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Fry only 3-4 range rattlers at a time, depending on pan size. Overcrowding drops the oil temperature dramatically, resulting in soggy, oil-soaked shrimp instead of crispy golden perfection. Patience here pays off with superior texture.

7. Double Bread for Extra Crunch
For an even crispier coating reminiscent of restaurant-quality range rattlers saltgrass recipe, try double breading: after the first coating, dip again in egg and breadcrumbs. This creates an extra-thick, super-crunchy shell that stays crispy longer.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover saltgrass range rattlers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy.

Common Queries and FAQs

Q: Can I make saltgrass range rattlers ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can bread the shrimp up to 4 hours ahead and refrigerate them on a parchment-lined tray. Fry them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Q: What can I substitute for shrimp paste?

A: If you can’t find shrimp paste, finely mince raw shrimp in a food processor until it forms a paste-like consistency. About 1/2 cup raw minced shrimp works well as an alternative.

Q: Are saltgrass rattlesnake bites actually made with rattlesnake?

A: No! The name is purely creative marketing. Traditional range rattlers are made entirely with shrimp and get their name from the Texas-themed branding of Saltgrass Steakhouse.

Q: Can I bake these instead of frying?

A: While frying produces the most authentic texture, you can bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Spray with cooking oil for better browning, though they won’t be quite as crispy as the fried version.

Q: Where can I buy orange breadcrumbs?

A: Check the Asian food section of your grocery store, or order online. Alternatively, mix regular panko breadcrumbs with orange food coloring or paprika to achieve the signature color of saltgrass range rattlers.

Q: How spicy are range rattlers?

A: The recipe has a mild to medium heat level from the green chilies. You can easily adjust by using more or fewer chilies, or by removing the seeds for less heat while keeping the flavor.

Q: Can I freeze uncooked range rattlers?

A: Absolutely! Freeze breaded uncooked shrimp on a tray until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Fry directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to cooking time.

Saltgrass Range Rattlers Recipe

5 from 2 votes

If you’ve ever dined at Saltgrass Steakhouse and fallen in love with their famous saltgrass range rattlers, you’re not alone! These crispy, flavorful shrimp bites have become a cult favorite appetizer. The range rattlers saltgrass recipe combines succulent shrimp wrapped in a fragrant Asian-inspired filling, then coated in vibrant orange breadcrumbs and fried to golden perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 25 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 9

Course: Starter

Cuisine: American

Calories: 465

Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 9 –10 large shrimp peeled & deveined (tail on)
• 1 cup shrimp paste
• 1/3 cup finely chopped onions
• 2 tbsp chopped green chili jalapeño or serrano
• 2 tbsp chopped coriander cilantro
• 2 tbsp fresh mint chopped
• 1 tbsp finely chopped lemongrass white part only
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp fish sauce
• 1/2 tsp oyster sauce
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp tasting salt
• 1/2 tsp regular salt
• 1/2 cup white breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 whisked egg
• 1/2 cup orange breadcrumbs or panko with orange food coloring
• Oil for frying vegetable or canola

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 3 shallow bowls (for breading station)
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Deep frying pan or skillet
• Slotted spoon or tongs
• Paper towels
• Plate for draining

Method

 

1. Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp carefully, but leave the tail on. The tail acts as a natural handle and gives your saltgrass rattlesnake bites that signature restaurant presentation.
2. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup shrimp paste, 1/3 cup finely chopped onions, 2 tbsp chopped green chili, 2 tbsp chopped coriander, 2 tbsp mint, 1 tbsp finely chopped lemongrass, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp fish sauce, 1/2 tsp oyster sauce, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp tasting salt, and 1/2 tsp regular salt. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined and aromatic.
3. Pour in 1/2 cup white breadcrumbs and mix again until incorporated. The filling should be sticky enough to hold its shape but not runny or loose.
4. Take one prepared shrimp and spoon a generous amount of the mixture on top, gently shaping it around the shrimp body. Cover the entire shrimp except for the tail, which should remain exposed. Repeat this process for all remaining shrimp.
5. Arrange three shallow bowls in a row. Place flour in the first bowl, whisked egg in the second, and orange breadcrumbs in the third.
6. First, roll each stuffed shrimp in flour, coating completely. Next, dip into the whisked egg, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, roll in orange breadcrumbs, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
7. Pour enough oil into your frying pan to cover at least half the height of the shrimp. Heat over medium heat until hot but not smoking (around 350°F/175°C).
8. Carefully place the breaded shrimp in the hot oil without overcrowding. Fry on medium-low heat for 4-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to turn them gently, ensuring even cooking.
9. Remove the range rattlers from oil and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Let them rest for about a minute, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Video

Notes

Store leftover saltgrass range rattlers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 8-10 minutes or in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-6 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy.

Now you have the complete saltgrass range rattlers recipe to recreate this restaurant favorite at home! These crispy, aromatic range rattlers bring together the best of Thai-inspired flavors with American appetizer appeal. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or craving that signature Saltgrass taste, these saltgrass rattlesnake bites deliver every single time.

The combination of herbs, spices, and that signature orange crunch makes them absolutely irresistible. Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds-and the recipe!

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