Crispy, cheesy, and totally addictive: Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls
Alright, picture this: golden, crunchy egg rolls stuffed with a gooey, spicy filling that makes your taste buds do a happy dance. I mean, who doesn’t love jalapeno poppers, right? Now imagine them wrapped up in a crispy egg roll shell—you get the best of both worlds. These Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls are the perfect appetizer or snack to whip up when you want something quick but seriously impressive. Plus, they’re a little spicy, a little cheesy, and 100% addictive. I can’t wait to share my go-to method so you can have that satisfying crunch and creamy filling ready in no time. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your new party favorite (or just your go-to kitchen treat).
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 4–6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3–4 fresh jalapenos, seeded and finely chopped (keep seeds for extra heat)
- 6 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Vegetable or canola oil, for frying
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing wrappers)
For the Sauce / Garnish (if applicable):
- Sour cream or ranch dressing, for dipping
- Extra sliced green onions or chopped cilantro (optional)
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by mixing the softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, jalapenos, green onions, garlic powder, and smoked paprika in a medium bowl. This filling should be creamy and packed with flavor. Don’t be shy with those jalapenos if you like a little heat!
Step 2:
Lay out the egg roll wrappers on a clean surface, one at a time. Place about 2 tablespoons of the cheesy jalapeno mixture in the center. Brush the edges lightly with the beaten egg to help seal.
Step 3:
Fold the bottom corner over the filling, roll tightly halfway, fold in the left and right corners, then finish rolling to seal completely. You want to get these as snug as possible to avoid any filling oozing out during frying.
Step 4:
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat, around 350°F. To test if oil is ready, carefully drop a small piece of wrapper in—it should sizzle immediately.
Step 5:
Fry the egg rolls in batches, careful not to crowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip gently, so they keep their shape.
Step 6:
Drain on paper towels, then serve warm with sour cream or ranch dip. Garnish with some extra green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch.
Variations & Tips
- For a milder version, remove all the jalapeno seeds or swap with mild peppers like poblano.
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon for an extra smoky, savory layer.
- Try swapping cheddar for pepper jack to amp up the spice.
- If you don’t have egg roll wrappers, wonton wrappers work in a pinch.
- To bake instead of fry, spray with oil and bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Make sure your oil isn’t too hot; too high and the shell crisps too fast leaving cold filling inside.
How I Like to Serve It
I love serving these Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls at casual get-togethers or game nights because they’re finger-friendly and packed with flavor. They’re perfecto alongside a fresh green salad or with a side of crispy fries to keep everything cozy and casual. And if you’re feeling festive, throw these out during holiday parties — they fly off the plate!
Notes
- Store leftover egg rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.
- You can prepare the filling a day ahead to save time when you want this quick snack.
Closing: Once you make these Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls, that crispy, creamy combo will have you coming back for more every single time.