Picture this: crispy, golden eggrolls stuffed with creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and the perfect kick of jalapenos. Seriously, is there a better way to wow your guests at a party? These Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls are the ultimate appetizer—easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and dangerously addictive. If you’ve been searching for a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to disappear in minutes, you’ve just found it!
What I love about this recipe is how it combines the beloved flavors of jalapeno poppers with the satisfying crunch of eggrolls. It’s the best of both worlds! Whether you’re hosting game night, a holiday party, or just a casual get-together, these eggrolls will steal the show. Plus, they’re surprisingly simple to prepare, even if you’re not a seasoned chef.
So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become your go-to appetizer for every occasion!
Recipe Story/Background
Jalapeno poppers have always been a favorite in my house. I mean, who doesn’t love the combination of spicy peppers, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon? But one day, I thought, “What if we took it a step further and wrapped all that goodness in an eggroll wrapper?” And voilà! These Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls were born.
This recipe is inspired by game-day snacks and party appetizers that are as fun to make as they are to eat. The idea of combining two classic appetizers—eggrolls and jalapeno poppers—just felt like the perfect marriage of flavors and textures. Plus, the portability of eggrolls makes them ideal for parties. No forks or plates needed—just grab, dip, and enjoy!
What’s really fun is how versatile these eggrolls are. They work for all kinds of gatherings, from summer barbecues to cozy winter game nights. I’ve even made them for family movie nights, and let me tell you, they were a hit. The best part? They’re just spicy enough to keep things exciting without overwhelming your taste buds.
Ingredient Discussion
The beauty of these Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls lies in the simplicity of the ingredients. Let’s break them down:
- Bacon: Smoky, crispy, and oh-so-delicious. Choose thick-cut bacon for the best texture. Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon works too!
- Jalapenos: Fresh jalapenos bring the heat. For a milder version, remove the seeds and membranes, or substitute with mini sweet peppers.
- Cream Cheese: The creamy base that holds everything together. Full-fat cream cheese is best, but you can use low-fat if you’re watching calories.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a tangy bite. You can also try pepper jack for extra spice or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
- Eggroll Wrappers: These can usually be found in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Spring roll wrappers won’t work here—you need the sturdiness of eggroll wrappers.
- Green Onions: A pop of freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Optional additions include garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of chipotle powder for a smoky kick. And don’t forget your dipping sauce! Ranch dressing, chipotle mayo, or even a sweet chili sauce pair wonderfully with these eggrolls.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowls: You’ll need one large bowl for the filling.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping bacon, jalapenos, and green onions.
- Frying Pan: To cook the bacon to crispy perfection.
- Deep Fryer or Large Pot: For frying the eggrolls. A heavy-bottomed pot works great if you don’t have a deep fryer.
- Tongs: For flipping and removing the eggrolls from the oil.
- Paper Towels: For draining excess oil from the fried eggrolls.
Preparation Method
- Cook the bacon in a frying pan over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, diced jalapenos, green onions, and crumbled bacon. Mix until well blended.
- Lay an eggroll wrapper on a clean surface in a diamond shape. Place 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture near the center.
- Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll tightly, sealing the edge with a bit of water.
- Heat oil in a deep fryer or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully fry the eggrolls in batches for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove the eggrolls with tongs and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Here are some tips to ensure your Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls turn out perfectly every time:
- Don’t overfill the wrappers! Too much filling can cause them to burst during frying.
- Make sure the oil is hot enough. If it’s too cool, the eggrolls will absorb oil and become greasy.
- For an extra-crispy texture, double-fry the eggrolls. Fry them once for 2 minutes, let them cool, and fry again for 1 minute.
- Use gloves when handling jalapenos to avoid irritation. Trust me, you don’t want to rub your eyes after chopping peppers!
Variations & Adaptations
- Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add diced mushrooms or black beans for texture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free eggroll wrappers or rice paper wrappers for a lighter alternative.
- Extra Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or diced habanero peppers to the filling.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
These eggrolls are best served fresh and hot. Arrange them on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces for a party-perfect presentation. If you have leftovers (rare, but possible!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes to regain their crunch.
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Each eggroll is packed with about 150 calories, 10g fat, and 6g protein. While they’re an indulgent treat, the jalapenos provide a boost of vitamin C and antioxidants, and the cheese adds calcium.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an appetizer that’s guaranteed to impress, these Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls are the way to go. They’re crispy, creamy, spicy, and just downright delicious. I can’t wait to hear how they turn out for you!
Let me know in the comments if you try this recipe or if you put your own spin on it. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for later and share it with your friends. Happy cooking!
FAQs
Can I bake these eggrolls instead of frying?
Yes! Brush them lightly with oil and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I make these eggrolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble them and freeze uncooked. Fry them directly from frozen when ready.
What dipping sauces pair well with these eggrolls?
Ranch, chipotle mayo, and sweet chili sauce are all amazing options!
How do I prevent the eggrolls from bursting open?
Don’t overfill, and make sure to seal the edges tightly with water.
Are these eggrolls spicy?
They have a mild kick, but you can reduce the heat by removing jalapeno seeds or using sweet peppers instead.