Crispy on the outside, creamy and spicy on the inside, these Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are a bold and irresistible twist on the classic appetizer. Featuring everything you love about jalapeño poppers, cream cheese, shredded cheese, bacon, and diced jalapeños, wrapped in an egg roll wrapper and deep-fried until golden, this recipe transforms your favorite party food into the ultimate finger food. They’re perfect for game day, potlucks, or anytime you crave something crunchy, cheesy, and spicy. Serve them with ranch, sour cream, or a sweet chili dip for the perfect contrast.
Ingredients
For the Filling
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
3 fresh jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Assembly and Frying
12 egg roll wrappers
1 egg, beaten (for sealing edges)
Vegetable oil, for frying
Optional Dipping Sauces
Ranch dressing
Sweet chili sauce
Spicy mayo
Preparation
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, pepper jack cheese, crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the filling is evenly combined and creamy.
Step 2: Lay one egg roll wrapper flat on a clean surface, with one corner pointing toward you (diamond orientation). Spoon 2 tablespoons of the filling mixture onto the lower third of the wrapper.
Step 3: Fold the bottom point up over the filling. Fold in the left and right corners toward the center, then roll tightly toward the top corner. Use the beaten egg to seal the top corner to the roll.
Step 4: Repeat the process with the remaining wrappers and filling until all egg rolls are assembled.
Step 5: Heat 2–3 inches of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Fry the egg rolls in batches, turning occasionally, for 3–4 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Remove the egg rolls from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Step 7: Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as ranch, spicy mayo, or sweet chili sauce.
Variations
- Add chopped cooked chicken or pulled pork to make them heartier
- Use pickled jalapeños for a tangy flavor instead of fresh ones
- Swap bacon for diced chorizo or sausage for a meatier kick
- Add a splash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat
- Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the bacon and adding roasted corn or black beans
Cooking Notes
- Always soften the cream cheese before mixing to ensure a smooth filling
- Dice the jalapeños finely to distribute their flavor evenly
- Don’t overfill the wrappers to avoid leaks during frying
- Fry in batches to prevent crowding and maintain oil temperature
- Use a thermometer to keep the oil at a consistent 350°F for crisp results
- Let egg rolls drain on paper towels to remove excess oil
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with ranch or blue cheese dressing to balance the heat
- Serve alongside other party snacks like nachos or sliders
- Offer a trio of dips for variety: ranch, spicy mayo, and sweet chili
- Garnish with chopped green onions or extra bacon bits
- Serve cut in half diagonally for a stylish appetizer platter
- Great addition to a game day or holiday appetizer spread
Tips
- Prepare the filling up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate
- Egg rolls can be assembled ahead of time and frozen before frying
- Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness
- Always seal edges well to prevent leaking in the oil
- Let fried egg rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving to avoid burns
- Experiment with cheese combinations to adjust the flavor
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per 1 egg roll, without dipping sauce)
Calories: 220
Protein: 6g
Sodium: 280mg
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Sugar: 1g
FAQs
Can I bake these egg rolls instead of frying?
- Yes. Preheat the oven to 400°F, brush egg rolls with oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I air fry these egg rolls?
- Absolutely. Air fry at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Can I freeze them before cooking?
- Yes. Place assembled egg rolls on a tray, freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag.
How spicy are they?
- Mild to medium depending on the jalapeños used. Remove all seeds for less heat or leave some for extra kick.
What can I substitute for egg roll wrappers?
- Spring roll wrappers or phyllo dough can be used, but the texture will vary.
Conclusion
Spicy Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are the ultimate fusion snack, crunchy, cheesy, savory, and spicy all in one bite. They offer the creamy heat of traditional jalapeño poppers but take it to a new level with that crispy golden shell. Whether served at a party, as a fun dinner appetizer, or made ahead and frozen for quick snacks, they’re a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again. With easy customizations and a short cooking time, these egg rolls are a bold and flavorful addition to any appetizer menu. If you’re craving something spicy and satisfying, this recipe delivers with every bite.