These crispy bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls combine spicy jalapeños, creamy cheese, and crunchy bacon all wrapped in a tasty eggroll shell. Perfect for snacking or game days!
Every bite is like a mini party in your mouth! I love serving them with a ranch dip—it’s a fun way to cool down the spice while keeping it delicious. Give them a try! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base of your filling, giving that creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a strong flavor. Try using pepper jack for an extra kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. It melts well, providing a gooey filling.
Bacon: Crispy bacon is a must for that crunch! If you’re vegetarian or want a healthier option, consider using cooked mushrooms or tempeh bacon for a similar texture.
Jalapeños: Adjust the spice by using milder peppers, like poblano peppers, or omit them entirely for a non-spicy version. You could even use banana peppers for a fruity taste!
How Do I Seal Eggrolls Properly?
Sealing the eggrolls correctly is important to keep the filling inside while frying. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to wet the corner of the wrapper with the beaten egg before sealing. This acts like glue.
- Fold the wrapper tightly around the filling. Don’t leave too much air inside, as this can cause them to burst during frying.
- After rolling, press the sealed edges firmly to ensure they hold while cooking.
Practicing this technique will help you make perfectly sealed and crispy eggrolls each time!
Crispy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 12 eggroll wrappers
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing wrappers)
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes from start to finish, including preparation and cooking time. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes assembling the eggrolls and then around 15 minutes frying them until they are crispy and golden brown.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, and sliced green onions. Use a fork or spatula to mix everything together until it’s well blended and smooth. This mixture will be the delicious filling for your eggrolls!
2. Roll the Eggrolls:
Lay one eggroll wrapper on a clean, flat surface with one corner pointing toward you (make it look like a diamond shape). Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the jalapeño popper mixture near the corner closest to you. Fold that corner over the filling to cover it, then fold in the left and right corners to enclose the filling. Finally, roll the eggroll tightly away from you to seal it. Brush a little beaten egg on the final corner to ensure it sticks closed.
3. Fry the Eggrolls:
In a deep skillet or pan, heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the eggrolls in batches, making sure not to crowd the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove them and let them drain on paper towels.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy these crunchy, cheesy, spicy treats warm. Serve with ranch dressing, sour cream, or your favorite dip for an extra layer of flavor. Perfect for parties or just a cozy snack at home!
Happy cooking!
FAQ for Crispy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls
Can I Use Avocado Instead of Cream Cheese?
Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute cream cheese with mashed avocado. Keep in mind that this will give a different flavor and creaminess, but it will still be delicious.
How Can I Make These Eggrolls Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the eggrolls and assemble them a few hours in advance. Just cover them with a damp towel to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply fry them as instructed. Alternatively, you can freeze uncooked eggrolls and fry them straight from the freezer—just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover eggrolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes for crispiness, or reheat in the microwave but note they will be softer.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Absolutely! To bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange the eggrolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray them lightly with cooking spray. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.