Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are a fun and tasty snack! They are packed with creamy cheese and a spicy kick from jalapeños, all wrapped in a crispy shell.
These little bites are perfect for game day or parties. I love how easy they are to share—but let’s be honest, I usually keep a few just for me! 😋
Making them is a breeze: just fill, roll, and fry or bake. They disappear fast, so I always make a double batch—trust me, it’s worth it!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Egg Roll Wrappers: These can be found in the refrigerated section. If you can’t find them, you might try using wonton wrappers, though they will be smaller. You could even make your own wrappers if you’re feeling adventurous!
Cream Cheese: I love using full-fat cream cheese for a rich taste, but you can swap in low-fat cream cheese or even a dairy-free cream cheese for a lighter or lactose-free option.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños bring heat and flavor, but you can use pickled jalapeños for a tangy twist. If you prefer less spice, try using bell peppers or skip them altogether.
Bacon: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute bacon with cooked and crumbled tempeh or omit it entirely. You can also use turkey bacon if you want a leaner choice.
Cheddar and Pepper Jack Cheese: These cheeses give a great flavor balance. You can use Mexican blend cheese or even a spicy cheese mix if you want more heat.
How Do You Get the Perfect Seal on Your Egg Rolls?
Sealing your egg rolls properly is essential to keep the filling inside while frying. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to use enough water to wet the edges of the wrapper. This helps them stick together.
- Don’t overfill the wrappers. Too much filling can make them hard to seal and might cause them to burst while frying.
- Fold and roll tightly from the bottom up, ensuring a snug fit. This keeps all the cheesy goodness inside!
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if your first few aren’t perfect. They’ll still taste amazing!
How to Make Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Egg Rolls:
- 1 package egg roll wrappers (about 20 wrappers)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- ½ cup fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- ¼ cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Oil for deep frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 15 minutes for frying. So, in total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes before you get to enjoy these tasty treats!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded pepper jack cheese, chopped jalapeños, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. You want all the yummy flavors to blend nicely!
2. Assemble the Egg Rolls:
Take an egg roll wrapper and lay it flat on a clean surface with one corner pointing towards you. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cheese and jalapeño mixture into the center of the wrapper. Then, fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the two side corners, and roll it tightly toward the top corner. To seal the egg roll, dab a little water on the edge to make it stick. Repeat this with all the wrappers and filling until you’re done!
3. Fry the Egg Rolls:
Now, it’s time for frying! Heat oil in a deep pot or fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the egg rolls to the hot oil a few at a time (don’t overcrowd the pot). Fry them until they turn golden brown and crispy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain any excess oil.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are cool enough to handle, serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce. Ranch or spicy mayo works great! Enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Cream cheese is essential for creaminess, but you can replace cheddar or pepper jack with mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese that melts well. Just remember to keep the total amount of cheese about 2 cups for best results!
What If I Don’t Have Bacon?
No problem! You can omit the bacon or substitute it with cooked and crumbled sausage, or even use a plant-based bacon alternative for a vegetarian version. If you want to keep the savory flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture!
How Do I Store Leftover Egg Rolls?
To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Can I Bake These Instead of Frying?
Yes! If you prefer a healthier option, you can bake them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), brush the egg rolls lightly with oil, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until golden and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
