These Crispy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls are a fun twist on a classic appetizer! Packed with crunchy bacon, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese, each bite is deliciously tasty.
Honestly, what’s better than a crispy eggroll? One filled with bacon and jalapeños! I love serving these at parties or just enjoying them for a casual snack. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: This is the base that gives the filling its creamy texture. If you want a lighter option, you could use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a nice bold flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, Monterey Jack or pepper jack can add a twist of flavor and spice!
Bacon: I love crispy bacon for that crunchy texture. For a vegetarian version, try using crumbled tempeh or chickpea bacon. They add a different flavor profile but are still great!
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños provide heat. If you prefer milder flavors, consider using bell peppers or even roasted red peppers instead. You could also adjust the amount of jalapeños based on your spice tolerance!
Eggroll Wrappers: These can sometimes be found in the freezer aisle. If unavailable, you could use spring roll wrappers or even make your own with thinly rolled dough. Just be sure to seal them well!
How Do I Properly Roll and Seal Eggrolls?
Rolling eggrolls may seem tricky, but it’s all about technique. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with one corner of the eggroll wrapper facing you. Place your filling close to this corner, but not too close to the edges.
- Fold the corner over the filling tightly, like a burrito, and then fold the left and right sides in to hold the filling securely.
- Continue rolling towards the far corner while keeping it tight. Use a drop of water on the edge to seal it well; this helps prevent any filling from leaking out during frying.
Practice makes perfect, and don’t worry if they don’t look perfect—it’s all about the taste at the end of the day!
How to Make Crispy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Filling:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3-4 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped (adjust for heat preference)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Wrapping:
- 10-12 eggroll wrappers
For Frying:
- Vegetable oil, for frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and another 10 minutes to fry the eggrolls, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick appetizer or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeños, green onions, garlic powder, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy. This will be the delicious filling for your eggrolls!
2. Roll the Eggrolls:
Take an eggroll wrapper and lay it flat on a clean surface with one corner facing you (it should look like a diamond). Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the corner closest to you. Fold that corner over the filling, then tuck in the left and right sides. Roll it tightly towards the far corner, making sure to keep it snug. To seal the edge, use a little water on the tip of the corner before pressing it down. Repeat this with the rest of your eggroll wrappers and filling.
3. Fry the Eggrolls:
In a deep skillet or fryer, heat vegetable oil to 350°F (175°C). Carefully place the eggrolls in batches into the hot oil, avoiding overcrowding. Fry them for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Once done, remove the eggrolls using a slotted spoon and let them drain on paper towels.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
These crispy eggrolls are best served warm! Pair them with ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick. Enjoy your delightful snack!
Can I Use Leftover Cooked Chicken Instead of Bacon?
Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, it can be a great substitute for bacon. Just shred or chop the chicken into small pieces and add it to the cheese mixture for a tasty variation.
How Do I Make These Eggrolls Spicy?
If you want to spice things up, consider adding more jalapeños or experimenting with other spicy ingredients like diced serrano peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper in the filling. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare These Eggrolls in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the eggrolls ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying. Just cover them with a damp paper towel and plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out, and make sure to fry them just before serving for the best crispiness.
How Do I Store Leftover Eggrolls?
Store any leftover eggrolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again.
