Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls: The Ultimate Appetizer Recipe

Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls: Prepare to meet your new favorite appetizer! Imagine the creamy, spicy, cheesy goodness of a jalapeno popper, perfectly combined with crispy bacon, all wrapped up in a crunchy eggroll wrapper. Sounds amazing, right? These aren’t just any eggrolls; they’re an explosion of flavor and texture that will have everyone begging for more.

While the exact origins of combining jalapeno poppers with eggrolls are a bit hazy, the concept draws inspiration from the American South’s love of deep-fried appetizers and the global appeal of eggrolls. Eggrolls themselves have a rich history, originating in China as spring rolls, and evolving into the deep-fried delights we know and love today. This fusion dish takes the best of both worlds, creating a modern twist on classic comfort food.

People adore these Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls for several reasons. First, the taste is simply irresistible. The creamy cheese filling, the spicy kick of the jalapenos, and the salty, smoky bacon create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Second, the texture is phenomenal – the crispy eggroll wrapper gives way to a soft, gooey interior. Finally, they’re incredibly convenient. Perfect for parties, game day gatherings, or even a fun weeknight snack, these eggrolls are easy to make and even easier to devour. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this addictive appetizer!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• 12 large egg roll wrappers
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6 slices)
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapenos, finely diced (more or less to taste)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Vegetable oil, for frying

Preparing the Filling:

Alright, let’s get started with the heart of these amazing egg rolls – the filling! This is where all the magic happens, so pay close attention.

1. Soften the Cream Cheese: First things first, make sure your cream cheese is nice and soft. This is crucial for a smooth and creamy filling. If you forgot to take it out of the fridge ahead of time, you can microwave it in 15-second intervals until it’s pliable, but be careful not to melt it!
2. Combine the Cheeses: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and the shredded cheddar cheese. Use a sturdy spoon or spatula to mix them together until they are well incorporated. You want a nice, even mixture with no lumps of cream cheese remaining.
3. Add the Bacon: Now for the star of the show – the bacon! Make sure your bacon is cooked until crispy and then crumbled into small pieces. Add the crumbled bacon to the cheese mixture. The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon is what really elevates these egg rolls.
4. Incorporate the Jalapenos: Next, add the finely diced pickled jalapenos. The amount you use is entirely up to your preference. If you like a lot of heat, go ahead and add a little more. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount and taste as you go. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
5. Add the Cilantro and Spices: Now it’s time to add the fresh cilantro, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. The cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon. The garlic and onion powder provide a savory depth of flavor, and the black pepper adds just a touch of warmth.
6. Mix Well: Use your spoon or spatula to thoroughly mix all of the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. You want to make sure that every bite of these egg rolls is packed with flavor. Taste the filling and adjust the seasonings as needed. Maybe you want a little more garlic powder, or perhaps a pinch of salt. Now is the time to make it perfect!

Assembling the Egg Rolls:

Now comes the fun part – assembling the egg rolls! This might seem a little intimidating at first, but trust me, it’s easier than it looks. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be a pro in no time.

1. Prepare Your Workspace: Lay out a clean, dry surface to work on. You’ll need your egg roll wrappers, the prepared filling, the beaten egg (for egg wash), and a small bowl of water. Keep a damp paper towel handy to cover the wrappers and prevent them from drying out.
2. Position the Wrapper: Place one egg roll wrapper on your work surface in a diamond shape, with one point facing you.
3. Add the Filling: Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling onto the center of the wrapper, closer to the point facing you. Be careful not to overfill the wrapper, or it will be difficult to seal and may burst during frying.
4. Fold the Bottom Corner: Fold the bottom corner of the wrapper over the filling, tucking it tightly. This will help to secure the filling and create a nice, tight roll.
5. Fold the Sides: Fold the left and right corners of the wrapper inward, towards the center. This will create a sealed envelope shape.
6. Roll and Seal: Brush the top corner of the wrapper with the beaten egg. This will act as a glue to seal the egg roll. Roll the egg roll tightly from the bottom to the top, pressing gently to seal the edge.
7. Repeat: Repeat steps 2-6 with the remaining egg roll wrappers and filling. Make sure to keep the assembled egg rolls covered with a damp paper towel to prevent them from drying out.

Frying the Egg Rolls:

Alright, we’re almost there! Now it’s time to fry these bad boys up and get them nice and crispy. This is where the magic really happens, so pay close attention to the temperature of the oil.

1. Heat the Oil: Pour about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil into a large, heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil over medium-high heat to 350-375°F (175-190°C). Use a deep-fry thermometer to monitor the temperature of the oil. It’s crucial to maintain the correct temperature for even cooking and crispy results. If the oil is too cold, the egg rolls will be greasy. If it’s too hot, they will burn on the outside before the filling is heated through.
2. Fry in Batches: Carefully add the egg rolls to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding the pot will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy egg rolls. Fry the egg rolls for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
3. Remove and Drain: Use a slotted spoon or tongs to carefully remove the fried egg rolls from the oil and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. This will help to keep them crispy.
4. Serve Immediately: Serve the bacon jalapeno popper egg rolls immediately while they are hot and crispy. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer.

Serving Suggestions:

These bacon jalapeno popper egg rolls are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a dipping sauce! Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions:

• Ranch Dressing: A classic pairing that complements the flavors of the bacon and jalapenos perfectly.
• Sour Cream: The cool, tangy flavor of sour cream provides a nice contrast to the richness of the egg rolls.
• Guacamole: For a Southwestern twist, serve these egg rolls with a side of creamy guacamole.
• Spicy Mayo: Mix mayonnaise with a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Sweet Chili Sauce: A sweet and spicy sauce that adds a delicious Asian-inspired flavor.

Enjoy your homemade Bacon Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls! I hope you love them as much as I do. They’re perfect for parties, game day, or just a fun and delicious snack. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings and dipping sauces to create your own unique variations. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! These Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls are truly a flavor explosion you won’t soon forget. From the crispy, golden-brown wrapper to the creamy, cheesy, spicy, and smoky filling, every bite is an absolute delight. I know, I know, I might be a little biased, but seriously, this recipe is a game-changer. It’s the perfect appetizer for game day, a fun snack for movie night, or even a surprisingly delicious addition to your next potluck.

But what makes these eggrolls a must-try? It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crispy shell gives way to a soft, cheesy interior, punctuated by the heat of the jalapenos and the savory goodness of the bacon. It’s a symphony of deliciousness that will have everyone reaching for more. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make! Don’t let the “eggroll” part intimidate you. With a little practice, you’ll be rolling like a pro in no time.

And the best part? You can totally customize these to your liking! Feeling adventurous? Try adding some shredded chicken or pulled pork to the filling for an even heartier snack. Want to dial up the heat? Use hotter peppers like serranos or habaneros (but be careful!). For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and add some roasted corn or black beans for extra flavor and texture.

Here are a few serving suggestions to take your Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls experience to the next level:

* Dipping Sauces: Ranch dressing is a classic pairing, but don’t be afraid to experiment! Try a cool sour cream dip, a spicy sriracha mayo, or even a sweet chili sauce.
* Garnishes: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or green onions adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.
* Sides: Serve these eggrolls with a side of coleslaw or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
* Presentation: Arrange the eggrolls artfully on a platter and garnish with a few jalapeno slices for a visually appealing presentation.

I truly believe that this recipe is a winner, and I can’t wait for you to try it! It’s the kind of dish that will impress your friends and family, and it’s guaranteed to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven (or get your fryer ready!), and get rolling! I promise you won’t regret it.

And once you’ve made these amazing Bacon Jalapeno Popper Eggrolls, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What dipping sauce did you choose? What did your friends and family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy cooking! I am sure you will love this recipe as much as I do. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends! Let’s spread the deliciousness!