Description
These Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are a deliciously crispy appetizer featuring a creamy blend of cream cheese, cheddar, bacon, and spicy jalapeños wrapped in crispy egg roll wrappers and fried to golden perfection. Perfect for parties or game day snacks, they can also be baked or air fried for a lighter alternative.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 3–4 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Egg Rolls
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Vegetable oil, for frying
- Optional: ranch or sour cream for dipping
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix together the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cooked bacon, finely chopped jalapeños, and garlic powder until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble the Egg Rolls: Lay one egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a diamond orientation (one corner facing you). Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly towards the top corner. Lightly wet the top corner with water to seal the edge. Repeat this process with the remaining wrappers and filling.
- Heat the Oil: Pour vegetable oil into a deep skillet or pot to a depth of about 2 inches. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), using a thermometer to maintain the temperature.
- Fry the Egg Rolls: Carefully place the egg rolls into the hot oil in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry each batch for 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even browning, until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the fried egg rolls with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve warm alongside ranch or sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- For a lighter alternative, bake the egg rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through until crisp and golden.
- Alternatively, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes for a healthier version.
- Use gloves when handling jalapeños to prevent skin irritation from the capsaicin.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with meat-free bacon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
