Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls

Introduction

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that packs a punch of flavor, these Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls are exactly what you need. Combining the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese, these egg rolls offer a delightful twist on the classic jalapeño popper. Perfect for game day, parties, or any gathering, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit. The crispy exterior contrasts beautifully with the gooey, cheesy filling, making every bite a delicious experience. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for an appetizer that everyone will be talking about!

What You’ll Need

Essential Equipment

To prepare these delicious egg rolls, you’ll need the following equipment:

  • Mixing bowl: For combining the bacon jalapeño popper filling.
  • Knife and cutting board: For dicing the jalapeños and chopping the bacon.
  • Deep fryer or large pot: For frying the egg rolls to crispy perfection.
  • Slotted spoon: For safely removing the egg rolls from the hot oil.
  • Paper towels: For draining excess oil from the fried egg rolls.
  • Tongs: For handling the egg rolls in the fryer.

Key Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a savory, crispy element to the filling.
  • 4 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced: Provides a spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese.
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates a rich and creamy base for the filling.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a sharp, cheesy flavor that melts beautifully.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the overall flavor with a subtle garlic taste.
  • 1/2 tsp salt: Balances the flavors and brings out the taste of the ingredients.
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth to the filling.
  • 12 egg roll wrappers: Encases the filling, becoming crispy and golden when fried.
  • Vegetable oil, for frying: Used to fry the egg rolls to a perfect crisp.

Ingredient Preparation

Proper preparation of the ingredients ensures that the egg rolls are flavorful and easy to assemble.

Preparing the Filling

  1. Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. This will add a savory crunch to the filling.
  2. Dice the Jalapeños: Seed and finely dice the jalapeños. Removing the seeds reduces the heat slightly, but if you love extra spice, you can leave some in.
  3. Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.

Instructions

Assembling the Egg Rolls

  1. Prepare the Egg Roll Wrappers: Lay out an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface. Keep the other wrappers covered with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out.
  2. Add the Filling: Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the bacon jalapeño popper mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
  3. Fold and Roll: Fold in the sides of the wrapper, then roll it up tightly from the bottom, sealing the edges with a little water to ensure they stay closed during frying.
  4. Repeat: Continue with the remaining wrappers and filling until all the egg rolls are assembled.

Frying the Egg Rolls

  1. Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (180°C). The oil needs to be hot enough to cook the egg rolls quickly and evenly.
  2. Fry the Egg Rolls: Fry the egg rolls in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the fryer. Cook each batch for about 3-4 minutes, or until the egg rolls are golden brown and crispy.
  3. Drain Excess Oil: Use a slotted spoon to remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serving

Serve the Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls hot for the best taste and texture. These egg rolls pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces, such as ranch dressing, sweet chili sauce, or a tangy barbecue sauce. Arrange them on a platter for a party appetizer or a fun snack that everyone will love.

Storage

If you have any leftovers, allow the egg rolls to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until they are warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the egg rolls soggy.

Variations

Customizing Your Egg Rolls

This recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different tastes:

  • Spicier Version: Leave some of the seeds in the jalapeños or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for extra heat.
  • Different Cheeses: Try using pepper jack, gouda, or mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
  • Add Veggies: Include finely diced bell peppers or green onions in the filling for added texture and flavor.
  • Baked Version: For a lighter option, brush the assembled egg rolls with a little oil and bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

FAQs

Can I prepare the egg rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the egg rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before frying. If you’re making them further in advance, freeze the uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a minute or two to the cooking time.

Can I use an air fryer instead of deep frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the egg rolls for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and golden.

What other dipping sauces can I use?

In addition to ranch or sweet chili sauce, you can serve these egg rolls with sriracha mayo, blue cheese dressing, or even a honey mustard dip.

How do I keep the egg rolls from bursting during frying?

Make sure the egg rolls are rolled tightly and the edges are sealed well with water. Avoid overfilling the wrappers, as this can cause them to burst open during frying.

Conclusion

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls are a fun and delicious appetizer that combines the best of both worlds: the savory goodness of bacon and jalapeño poppers with the crispy texture of an egg roll. Whether you’re making them for a party, a game day snack, or just because you crave something flavorful, these egg rolls are sure to be a hit. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce and watch them disappear in no time! Try this recipe and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and crunchy in every bite.

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