If you’re in search of a delectable appetizer that will leave your guests raving, look no further than these Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls. Perfectly crispy on the outside and oozing with cheesy goodness on the inside, these egg rolls combine the classic flavors of jalapeno poppers with the delightful crunch of wonton wrappers. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for parties, game nights, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls are a fantastic blend of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors. The heat from the jalapenos is balanced by the richness of cream cheese and the smokiness of bacon, all wrapped in a crispy wonton wrapper. Whether you bake or fry them, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for anyone who loves a bit of spice and enjoys easy-to-make appetizers that don’t skimp on flavor. It’s also a great choice for those who like to experiment with fusion cuisine, blending traditional Asian elements with classic American flavors. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and yields impressive results.
Ingredients and Directions
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4-6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
- 3-5 jalapenos, seeded and diced
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wonton wrappers (around 22)
Directions:
- Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, diced jalapenos, sliced green onions, and garlic powder. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Place a wonton wrapper on a flat surface with the point facing you. Add 1 tablespoon of the filling to the bottom third of the wrapper. Brush a little water along the edges of the wrapper to help seal it. Fold the sides in and roll up the wrapper, ensuring it is completely sealed. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- To Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray and line the egg rolls seam side down. For extra crispy egg rolls, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Brush this mixture over the top of the egg rolls. Bake for 5 minutes, then flip the egg rolls and brush with more of the butter-oil mixture. Bake for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown on both sides.
- To Fry: Heat oil to 350°F (175°C) in a Dutch oven, deep stock pot, or deep-fat fryer. Fry the egg rolls for 3-4 minutes, turning as needed, until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate and allow to cool slightly before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information: 120 kcal per egg roll | Servings: 22 egg rolls
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Baking sheet
- Cooking spray
- Brush (for butter-oil mixture)
- Dutch oven or deep stock pot (for frying)
- Paper towels
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper Jack or Gouda would add a unique twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add more veggies like corn, black beans, or diced bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
- Extra Spicy: For those who love extra heat, leave some seeds in the jalapenos or add a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of ranch dressing, sour cream, or a sweet chili sauce for dipping.
If you loved this Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls recipe, you’ll definitely want to try our unique twist on a dessert classic with our Homemade Apple Pie Egg Rolls!
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover egg rolls, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy again.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Proper storage is key to maintaining the deliciousness of your Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls. Here’s how you can do it:
Refrigeration: If you plan to eat the egg rolls within a few days, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they are crispy and heated through. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the wrappers soggy.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the uncooked egg rolls. Lay them out on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Then, transfer the frozen egg rolls to a freezer bag. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook them, there’s no need to thaw. Simply add a few extra minutes to the baking or frying time.
Pairing Suggestions
When serving Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls, the right pairing can elevate your appetizer experience. Here are some suggestions:
Beverages:
- Lemonade or Iced Tea: The refreshing and cooling nature of these drinks pairs well with the spicy kick of the egg rolls.
- Beer: A light beer like a lager or a pilsner complements the richness and spiciness of the egg rolls.
- Margaritas: A classic margarita, with its citrusy and slightly sweet profile, pairs wonderfully with the jalapeno and cheese flavors.
Other Appetizers:
- Guacamole and Chips: The creamy, cool guacamole provides a nice contrast to the spicy, cheesy egg rolls.
- Salsa: A fresh tomato salsa or a spicy mango salsa can add another layer of flavor to your appetizer spread.
- Quesadillas: Simple cheese quesadillas or ones stuffed with vegetables can be a great addition to the table.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I make a gluten-free version of this recipe? A: Yes, you can! Substitute the wonton wrappers with gluten-free egg roll wrappers available in many health food stores or online.
Q: How can I make the egg rolls less spicy? A: To reduce the heat, you can use fewer jalapenos or ensure all the seeds and membranes are removed from the peppers. Additionally, using a milder cheese like Monterey Jack can help balance the spice level.
Q: Can I use an air fryer to cook these egg rolls? A: Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the egg rolls for about 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should come out crispy and golden brown.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with these egg rolls? A: Ranch dressing, sour cream, or sweet chili sauce are all excellent choices. You could also try a smoky chipotle mayo or a tangy barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
Call to Action
Thank you for trying out our Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls recipe! These crispy, cheesy delights are sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more mouth-watering recipes and culinary inspiration. We’d love to hear how your egg rolls turned out, so leave a comment below and let us know!
Happy cooking and enjoy your Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls!
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Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Description
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer? Try these Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls – they’re crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious!
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 22 egg rolls
- Calories: 120 kcal per egg roll
