Picture this: the enticing aroma of crispy bacon fills your kitchen, mingling with the subtle heat of jalapeños and the creamy richness of cheese. It's that perfect combination of flavors and textures that makes every bite unforgettable. That's exactly what you can expect with these Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls.
A recent gathering with friends sparked the creation of this delightful recipe when I found myself staring at a few leftover eggroll wrappers. With some crumbled bacon and a bit of cream cheese, I decided to craft something fun and new. Just like that, a crunchy, cheesy appetizer was born!
Perfect as a game day snack or even just a cozy evening treat, these eggrolls are not only ridiculously easy to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. In around 35 minutes, you’ll have a batch of these savory delights ready to share—or devour all by yourself! Get ready to transform your mundane snack routine with this delectable twist on a classic.
Why You'll Love This Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls
- These Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious snack in just 35 minutes.
- The combination of crispy bacon, zesty jalapeños, and creamy cheese creates an explosion of flavor that your taste buds will adore.
- Their versatility means you can serve them at parties, game days, or even as a cozy dinner treat, making them perfect for any occasion.
- Visually, these golden, crispy eggrolls are sure to impress your guests and elevate your snack game to a whole new level.
Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls Ingredients
For the Filling
- Cream cheese – provides a rich, creamy base; make sure it's softened for easy mixing.
- Cheddar cheese – adds a sharp and delightful flavor; feel free to mix with Monterey Jack for extra creaminess.
- Bacon – crumbled for a smoky crunch; consider using turkey bacon for a lower-fat option.
- Jalapeños – finely diced for that spicy kick; remove seeds for a milder flavor if preferred.
- Garlic powder – enhances the savory notes; fresh minced garlic can be a great alternative.
- Onion powder – adds depth to the filling; fresh onions can be used, but be sure to sauté them first for a sweeter taste.
- Salt – brings all the flavors together; adjust based on taste and if your cheese is salty.
- Black pepper – adds a touch of warmth; freshly ground black pepper will give the best flavor.
For the Wrapping
- Eggroll wrappers – these hold all that delicious filling; ensure you seal them tightly to prevent leaking while frying.
Dive into making these indulgent Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls and enjoy every delicious crunch!
How to Make Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls
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Mix the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
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Prepare the Wrappers: Take an eggroll wrapper and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center. Make sure it’s not too full to avoid bursting.
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Roll Them Up: Carefully fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Use a little water on the edges to help seal the wrapper completely.
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Heat the Oil: In a deep frying pan or pot, heat several inches of oil to 350°F. You’ll want enough oil to submerge the eggrolls for an even fry.
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Fry the Eggrolls: Gently place the eggrolls in the hot oil in batches, frying until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
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Drain and Serve: Use a slotted spoon to remove the eggrolls from the oil. Let them drain on a paper towel for a moment before serving.
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls?
The perfect pairing elevates these crunchy delights to a full-blown feast that delights every palate.
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Spicy Salsa: A scoop of zesty salsa adds a fresh burst of flavor and complements the smokiness of the bacon beautifully. Enjoy the perfect balance of heat with every bite.
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Creamy Ranch Dip: Creamy ranch dip is a classic choice that contrasts the eggrolls’ crispiness while enhancing their rich cheese filling. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes each bite even more enjoyable.
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Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip brings a cool touch to the spicy flavors, creating an amazing flavor journey. The smooth texture of guacamole pairs perfectly with the crunch.
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Sweet and Spicy Pickles: The tangy sweetness of pickles adds a delightful crunch, balancing the savory richness of the eggrolls. They provide a refreshing contrast to the warmth.
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Coleslaw: A light and tangy coleslaw offers a beautiful crunch and a pop of freshness, perfectly cutting through the richness of the eggrolls. This colorful side keeps the meal bright and vibrant.
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Chilled Beer: A cold beer, especially a pale ale or lager, brings out the flavors of the spices and rich cheese. This refreshing drink makes for a delightful, laid-back experience.
No matter which pairing you choose, your gathering will be complete when you welcome these Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls to the table!
Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these delicious eggrolls your own!
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Spicy Twist: Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for an extra kick that ignites the taste buds.
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Cheesy Delight: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese to bring a delightful melting spiciness, elevating your flavor experience.
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Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with diced mushrooms or tempeh to create a savory, meatless version that still delivers on taste.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh chopped cilantro or green onions for an aromatic lift that enhances the overall flavor profile.
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Sweet Heat: Incorporate a spoonful of diced mango or pineapple for a fruity contrast against the savory ingredients, creating a deliciously unexpected twist.
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Air Fryer Alternative: If you prefer a lighter option, cook your eggrolls in an air fryer at 375°F for about 12-15 minutes for a perfectly crispy exterior without the added oil.
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Creamy Sauce: Serve with a spicy ranch or creamy avocado dip on the side, adding a silky texture that complements the crispy eggrolls perfectly.
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Crunchy Coating: Instead of traditional wrappers, use crushed tortilla chips mixed with breadcrumbs to create a crunchy exterior that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the filling up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients together and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The eggroll wrappers can also be filled and rolled ahead of time, just be sure to cover them with a damp cloth to prevent them from drying out. When you’re ready to serve, heat your oil and fry the eggrolls directly from the fridge, ensuring they stay just as delicious and crispy. This way, you’ll have a satisfying snack ready with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls
Room Temperature: Store leftover eggrolls at room temperature for up to 2 hours after cooking. Ensure they are kept covered to prevent them from drying out.
Fridge: Place cooled eggrolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain crispiness before serving.
Freezer: Freeze uncooked eggrolls by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a resealable bag for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time.
Reheating: For best results, reheat leftover eggrolls in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes or until heated through and crispy. Enjoy your delicious Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls, ensure your cream cheese is fully softened to achieve a smooth filling that blends well.
- When wrapping the eggrolls, avoid overfilling to prevent them from bursting during frying.
- Heat your oil to precisely 350°F for the best frying results, ensuring a crisp exterior without raw filling.
- Fry the eggrolls in batches to maintain the oil temperature, which guarantees they cook evenly and develop that golden crispiness you desire.
Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls Recipe FAQs
What is the best way to choose jalapeños for the filling?
When selecting jalapeños, look for firm ones with a shiny, smooth skin. Avoid any that have dark spots or wrinkles, as these can indicate over-ripeness. For a milder flavor, opt for lighter-colored jalapeños, which are generally less spicy, or remove the seeds before dicing.
How should I store leftover Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls?
Store any leftover eggrolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their crispiness, reheat them in an oven preheated to 375°F for about 10–15 minutes or until they are hot and crunchy again.
Can I freeze Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, lay the uncooked eggrolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid. Once firm, transfer them to a resealable plastic bag and store them for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, fry them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to your cooking time.
What should I do if the eggrolls burst while frying?
If your eggrolls burst, it usually means they were overfilled or not sealed tightly enough. To avoid this, keep the filling amount around 2 tablespoons and wet the edges of the wrappers while sealing. Also, ensure that your oil is hot enough—around 350°F—before frying; this helps them cook quickly and reduces the chance of bursting.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, if you're serving these Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls to guests, consider any allergies to dairy or gluten. You can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use gluten-free eggroll wrappers. Additionally, for pet safety, keep these away from dogs, as ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to them.
How long can I keep the eggrolls at room temperature?
Leftover eggrolls can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Make sure to cover them to prevent them from drying out. If they sit out longer than that, it’s best to discard them for food safety reasons.
Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Take an eggroll wrapper and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling in the center.
- Carefully fold the bottom of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Use a little water on the edges to help seal the wrapper.
- In a deep frying pan, heat several inches of oil to 350°F.
- Gently place the eggrolls in the hot oil and fry until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the eggrolls from the oil and let them drain on a paper towel before serving.
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