Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a spicy kick? These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and fiery jalapeño flavor, all wrapped up in a crispy shell. Whether you’re hosting a party, game night, or simply craving a tasty snack, these egg rolls are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make these irresistible bites of goodness!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 jalapeños, seeded and diced
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, diced jalapeños, cooked bacon bits, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls:
- Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean, dry surface. Spoon a generous portion of the filling onto the center of the wrapper, spreading it out into a line.
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, tucking it snugly underneath. Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, sealing the edge with a dab of water.
- Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling until all the egg rolls are assembled.
- Fry the Egg Rolls:
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully place the assembled egg rolls into the hot oil, a few at a time, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Once cooked, remove the egg rolls from the oil and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess oil.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the egg rolls to cool slightly before serving. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing or sweet chili sauce, for an extra burst of flavor.
- Enjoy these Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls as a delicious appetizer, snack, or party food that’s sure to please everyone!
Cook’s Notes:
- Be sure to wear gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation from the spicy oils.
- You can customize the filling by adding ingredients like diced green onions, chopped cilantro, or even cooked ground sausage for extra flavor.
- If you prefer a milder heat, you can reduce the amount of jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes before dicing.
Variations:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add more diced vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or Monterey Jack, for a unique flavor twist.
- If you don’t have egg roll wrappers on hand, you can use wonton wrappers or even large flour tortillas cut into squares.
These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are a tasty and addictive appetizer that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy, cheesy filling and crispy exterior, they’re sure to be a hit with friends and family alike. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them as a snack, these egg rolls are guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for something spicy and delicious. Try making a batch today and watch them disappear in no time
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
- Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to fry them. Just be sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.
- Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying them?
- While frying gives the egg rolls that classic crispy texture, you can also bake them for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the assembled egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- How do I store leftover egg rolls?
- If you have any leftover egg rolls, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
- Can I freeze these egg rolls?
- Yes, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked egg rolls for later use. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When ready to cook, fry them straight from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
- What dipping sauce pairs well with these egg rolls?
- These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, including ranch dressing, sweet chili sauce, sriracha mayo, or even guacamole for an extra kick of flavor.
- Can I make these egg rolls without jalapeños for a milder version?
- Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the jalapeños altogether or replace them with a milder pepper variety like bell peppers.
- Are these egg rolls kid-friendly?
- While these egg rolls do have a spicy kick from the jalapeños, you can adjust the heat level to suit your taste preferences. For a milder version, simply reduce the amount of jalapeños or remove the seeds and membranes before dicing.
These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic appetizer, combining creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and crispy egg roll wrappers into one delicious bite. Whether you’re serving them as a party snack, game day treat, or weeknight dinner, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit with everyone. Experiment with different fillings and dipping sauces to customize them to your liking, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors with every bite
