Description
These crispy jalapeño popper egg rolls are a budget-friendly, crowd-pleasing appetizer that combines spicy jalapeños with creamy cheese in a shatteringly crisp wrapper. They are quick to make, easy to customize, and perfect for game day or weeknight cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 package refrigerated egg roll wrappers
- 1 block (8 oz) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4–5 fresh jalapeño peppers, seeds and membranes removed, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil (for frying)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Small bowl of water (for sealing wrappers)
Instructions
- Soften the cream cheese and mix it in a medium bowl with shredded cheddar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and lump-free.
- Wear gloves and finely dice the jalapeños, then stir them into the cheese mixture.
- Place an egg roll wrapper in a diamond shape on a clean surface. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto the center, 1 inch from the bottom point.
- Fold the bottom point up over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Fold in the left and right sides, overlapping slightly.
- Run a little water along the top point and fold it down to seal. Press firmly to remove air pockets.
- Heat about 2 inches of oil in a skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F.
- Fry egg rolls in batches, seam side down first, for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove to a wire rack to drain. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, brushing with oil.
- Serve immediately with ranch, chipotle mayo, or sweet chili sauce.
Notes
Ensure the filling is cold before wrapping to prevent sticking. Keep egg roll wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent cracking. Remove all air pockets when sealing to prevent bursting. For a healthier option, bake or air fry at 375°F for 10-12 minutes. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze uncooked egg rolls for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 egg rolls per se
- Calories: 165
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 250
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 6
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 5
Keywords: jalapeño popper egg rolls, cheap appetizer, game day food, easy appetizer, crispy egg rolls, budget friendly recipes, spicy appetizer