Spicy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls Recipe
If you love the creamy, spicy, and cheesy flavor of jalapeño poppers, you’re going to fall in love with these Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls! This unique twist on a classic appetizer combines the best elements of jalapeño poppers and crispy egg rolls, resulting in a snack or party treat that’s irresistibly crunchy, creamy, and spicy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: A delightful blend of spicy jalapeños, rich cream cheese, and savory bacon.
- Crispy Perfection: The egg roll wrapper fries to golden-brown crispiness, giving you the ultimate crunch.
- Party Favorite: These are always a hit at gatherings, disappearing as soon as they’re served.
- Customizable Heat: Control the spice level to suit everyone’s palate.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, jalapeños, bacon, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated.
- Adjust the Spice: Taste the filling and adjust the heat level by adding more jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Prepare the Wrappers: Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface, with one corner pointing toward you (like a diamond).
- Add the Filling: Place 2–3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Roll It Up: Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides tightly. Roll up toward the top corner, brushing the edges with beaten egg to seal. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
- Heat the Oil: In a deep pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
- Fry in Batches: Carefully place 3–4 egg rolls in the oil, frying for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain the Oil: Use tongs to remove the egg rolls and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce (Optional)
- In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing, hot sauce, and lime juice. Stir well and set aside for dipping.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the egg rolls on a platter and serve them hot with the dipping sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or additional crumbled bacon for an extra touch.
Tips for Success
- Softened Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Secure Sealing: Make sure the egg roll wrappers are sealed tightly to prevent the filling from leaking during frying.
- Control the Heat: For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños.
- Crispier Egg Rolls: Fry in small batches to maintain the oil’s temperature.
Variations
Vegetarian Option
Omit the bacon and add finely diced mushrooms or black beans for a vegetarian twist.
Extra Cheesy
Add a handful of pepper jack cheese for an extra kick and creaminess.
Baked Egg Rolls
For a healthier version, brush the assembled egg rolls with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C), spray the egg rolls with cooking oil, and air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
- Appetizer Platter: Pair with other finger foods like mozzarella sticks, chicken wings, or stuffed mushrooms.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside a fresh salad or coleslaw for a complete meal.
- Party Spread: Include them in a game day or holiday spread for guaranteed crowd-pleasers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Wonton Wrappers Instead of Egg Roll Wrappers?
Wonton wrappers are smaller and thinner, but they can work for bite-sized versions. Adjust frying time accordingly.
What Oil Is Best for Frying?
Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work well for frying.
How Do I Keep the Egg Rolls Crispy?
Serve immediately after frying, and avoid covering them tightly to prevent steaming.
Are These Egg Rolls Spicy?
The level of spice depends on the jalapeños used. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes or use fewer jalapeños.
Conclusion
These Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls bring together the best of two worlds: the cheesy, spicy goodness of jalapeño poppers and the irresistible crunch of egg rolls. Perfect for any occasion, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Spicy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 egg roll wrappers
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 jalapenos, diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Optional toppings: Ranch or sour cream for dipping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, diced jalapenos, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Mix until fully combined and smooth.
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing toward you (diamond shape).
- Place about 2 tablespoons of the jalapeno popper filling in the center of the wrapper.
- Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the top edge with a dab of water. Repeat for all wrappers.
3. Heat the Oil
- In a large skillet or deep fryer, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the Egg Rolls
- Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil, a few at a time. Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. Serve
- Serve the egg rolls hot with ranch or sour cream for dipping.
Baking Option
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
Air Fryer Option
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place egg rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer and spray with cooking spray.
- Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.