Spicy Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls with Creamy Cheese Filling

   Looking to spice up your appetizer game? Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls are the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness with a spicy kick, all wrapped in a crispy eggroll shell. This recipe takes the beloved flavors of jalapeño poppers and combines them with the delightful crunch of eggrolls, creating a mouthwatering fusion that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a game-day snack, or just craving something indulgent, these eggrolls will hit the spot.

Ingredients

• 8 eggroll wrappers
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 jalapeño peppers, seeded and finely chopped
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Directions

1. Prepare the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped jalapeño peppers, green onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Assemble the Eggrolls: Lay an eggroll wrapper on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the cheese mixture diagonally across the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold the sides toward the center, and roll tightly to enclose the filling like a burrito. Use a bit of water on the edges to seal the eggroll.
3. Heat the Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep skillet or fryer to 350°F (175°C).
4. Fry the Eggrolls: Carefully place the eggrolls in the hot oil, seam side down. Fry in batches for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain and Serve: Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or sour cream.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time, and Kcal Per Serving

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per eggroll

Tips

• Handling Jalapeños: Wear gloves when handling and chopping jalapeño peppers to avoid irritation. If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers.
• Sealing the Eggrolls: Ensure the eggrolls are tightly sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out during frying. Use water to help seal the edges effectively.
• Oil Temperature: Maintain the oil temperature at 350°F (175°C) to ensure even frying and prevent the eggrolls from becoming greasy.
• Cooling Rack: After frying, place the eggrolls on a cooling rack over a baking sheet instead of paper towels to keep them crispier.

Benefits

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon, spicy jalapeños, and creamy cheese creates a burst of flavors in every bite.
• Versatile Appetizer: These eggrolls are perfect for various occasions, from casual get-togethers to special celebrations.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the eggrolls in advance and freeze them. Fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these eggrolls instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the eggrolls at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.

2. What dipping sauces go well with these eggrolls?
Popular choices include ranch dressing, sour cream, guacamole, or a spicy aioli.

3. Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Try using pepper jack, mozzarella, or even a combination of your favorite cheeses.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover eggrolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to maintain their crispiness.

5. Can I make these eggrolls vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or corn for a vegetarian version.

Conclusion

Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls are a deliciously innovative twist on traditional appetizers, blending spicy, savory, and cheesy elements into one irresistible snack. Perfect for parties, these eggrolls are easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Try them out at your next event, and enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying crunch that these eggrolls bring to the table.