Crunch. Sizzle. That first bite of a Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggroll is pure party magic—crispy wrapper shattering into creamy, spicy filling, with smoky bacon stealing the show. Honestly, these are the snacks that disappear fastest at any get-together (I’ve seen grown adults race for the last one, not kidding). The combo is wild: jalapeños, melty cheese, and bacon, all wrapped up and fried to golden perfection. If you love jalapeño poppers but crave something even more snackable, you’re in exactly the right spot.
I first whipped up these bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls for a game night, kind of on a whim. I had leftover eggroll wrappers and a bag of jalapeños begging to be used. There was no turning back after that. They’re now my go-to for any event—tailgates, birthdays, even random Tuesday nights when snack cravings hit hard. The best part? You get all the popper flavor, but with way less mess and way more crunch.
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, no matter your audience. Kids love the cheesy filling (just seed the jalapeños for a milder kick), adults go nuts for the bacon, and everyone loves dunking them in ranch or chipotle sauce. If you’re all about flavor, fun, and making something a little over-the-top, bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls should be on your menu. I’ve tested, tweaked, and devoured more batches than I can count, and I promise: you’re in for a treat.
Why You’ll Love This Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls Recipe
- Quick & Easy: These eggrolls come together in under 40 minutes, making them perfect for last-minute parties or spontaneous cravings.
- Simple Ingredients: Most of the stuff is probably in your fridge already—bacon, cream cheese, shredded cheese, jalapeños, and eggroll wrappers. No fancy shopping trips.
- Perfect for Parties: They’re finger food heaven for game days, holiday gatherings, or backyard BBQs. People will ask for the recipe (happens every time).
- Crowd-Pleaser: These are a hit with all ages. Even folks who think they don’t like spicy food often go back for seconds (just remove some seeds for less heat).
- Unbelievably Delicious: It’s the classic jalapeño popper—creamy, cheesy, spicy—plus bacon and the crunchiest wrapper ever. You know, that “just one more” feeling.
What sets these bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls apart is the way the filling stays perfectly creamy while the outside gets ultra-crunchy. I always chop the jalapeños pretty small so every bite has a little heat and lots of flavor. The bacon gets crisp in the oven before mixing in, which makes the texture unbeatable. And unlike traditional poppers, you don’t need to fuss with stuffing jalapeños—just mix, wrap, and fry.
Honestly, these are the kind of snacks you dream about. They’re comforting, a little bit naughty, but still easy enough for anyone to tackle. My family asks for them at every big event, and my friends have started calling them “dangerously addictive.” So if you want something special—something that’ll get rave reviews and empty plates—give these bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls a shot. You’ll see what all the fuss is about!
Ingredients Needed
This recipe keeps things simple but packs in tons of flavor. Every ingredient plays a role—some add heat, some richness, some crunch. And if you’ve got dietary needs or picky eaters, don’t worry, you can sub a few things and still get that classic popper taste.
- Eggroll wrappers – 12 pieces (standard 6×6-inch size; look for them in the refrigerated section)
- Cream cheese – 8 oz (225g), softened (full-fat for best texture, but low-fat works too)
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup (120g), shredded (sharp cheddar gives the most flavor, but any kind works)
- Jalapeños – 3 medium, finely diced (about 1/2 cup; remove seeds for less heat or leave some in for a fiery kick)
- Bacon – 6 slices, cooked crisp and chopped (I like thick-cut for extra smokiness; turkey bacon works if you prefer)
- Green onions – 2, thinly sliced (optional, but adds a nice fresh bite)
- Garlic powder – 1/2 tsp (for that little flavor punch)
- Salt & black pepper – to taste (I usually add 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper)
- Vegetable oil – for frying (about 3 cups/700ml; use canola, peanut, or whatever high-heat oil you like)
- Egg wash – 1 egg, beaten (for sealing the wrappers)
Substitution Tips:
- Swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend for a twist.
- Use dairy-free cream cheese if you need a lactose-free option (I’ve tried Kite Hill and it works great).
- For gluten-free, look for gluten-free eggroll wrappers or use rice paper (it’s a bit trickier to fry, but doable).
- If you want more veggies, toss in some finely chopped red bell pepper for sweetness.
Ingredient Selection Notes: I always grab block cheese and shred it myself—it melts better and tastes fresher. For jalapeños, smaller ones tend to be hotter, but also more flavorful. And for bacon, go with your favorite brand. I like Wright’s for its smoky kick.
Everything is easy to find. If you’re shopping in summer, fresh jalapeños are everywhere. In winter, I’ve used jarred jalapeños in a pinch—just drain and chop them well. The recipe is flexible, so don’t stress. The magic is in the blend of creamy, spicy, and crunchy.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls, I promise. Here’s what you’ll need, plus some tips if you’re working with basic gear:
- Large mixing bowl – For beating together the filling. If you have a stand mixer, it’ll make quick work of the cream cheese, but a sturdy spoon is fine.
- Sharp knife & cutting board – For chopping jalapeños, bacon, and green onions. Honestly, a small paring knife does the job for me.
- Frying pan or deep fryer – I use a heavy-bottomed pan (like a Dutch oven) for even heat, but a deep skillet works too. If you have an air fryer, you can use that for a lighter version (instructions below).
- Slotted spoon or tongs – For flipping and lifting out the eggrolls safely.
- Paper towels & plate – To drain off excess oil after frying. Don’t skip this—it keeps them crispy!
- Small bowl – For your egg wash.
- Baking sheet (optional) – If you want to keep batches warm in the oven as you fry.
Budget-Friendly Tip: I’ve made these with the cheapest nonstick skillet I own. Just watch the oil temperature and don’t overcrowd the pan. For cleaning, let the oil cool, strain, and store for another round—no need to waste.
If you’re low on space, prep the filling ahead and wrap the eggrolls right before frying. That way, you don’t need lots of bowls out at once.
Preparation Method
Let’s break it down step by step. Bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls aren’t hard, but getting the filling just right and wrapping them properly makes all the difference. Here’s how I do it for party-perfect results every time.
-
Cook the bacon: Fry or bake 6 slices of bacon until crispy (about 8-10 minutes at 400°F/200°C if baking). Drain and chop into small pieces. Set aside.
Personal tip: Bake on a wire rack—less mess, more crunch. -
Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine 8 oz (225g) softened cream cheese, 1 cup (120g) shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, 3 finely diced jalapeños, 2 sliced green onions, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/8 tsp black pepper.
Sensory cue: The filling should be thick, creamy, and speckled with green and red. -
Prepare eggroll wrappers: Lay out 12 eggroll wrappers on a clean surface. Beat 1 egg in a small bowl for your egg wash.
Note: Keep wrappers covered with a damp towel to prevent drying out. -
Fill and wrap: Spoon about 2 tablespoons (30g) of filling onto the lower third of each wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, then roll up tightly. Brush the edge with egg wash to seal.
Troubleshooting: If wrappers split, use less filling or double-wrap. -
Heat oil: Pour 3 cups (700ml) vegetable oil into a deep pan. Heat to 350°F (175°C). Test with a scrap wrapper—it should bubble instantly.
Warning: Don’t let oil go above 375°F (190°C) or wrappers burn fast. -
Fry eggrolls: Add 3-4 eggrolls at a time, seam-side down. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Use tongs to flip. Drain on paper towels.
Sensory cue: You’re looking for deep golden color and a loud crunch when tapped. -
Serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving—filling is hot! Serve with ranch, chipotle mayo, or your favorite dip.
Efficiency tip: Keep finished eggrolls warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven as you fry batches.
If you use an air fryer, spray each eggroll lightly with oil. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway—less mess, still crispy.
Cooking Tips & Techniques
Making bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls isn’t rocket science, but a few tricks make them truly epic. Here’s what’s worked for me (and what I’ve learned the hard way):
- Bacon matters: Use super crispy bacon. Soggy bacon makes the filling greasy and limp. If you’re baking, put the strips on a wire rack over a foil-lined pan—less fat, more crunch.
- Chop jalapeños tiny: Big chunks can be overwhelming, and sometimes you get a surprise heat blast. Dice small, mix well. Remove seeds for mild, leave a few in for spicy.
- Don’t overfill wrappers: I’ve split wrappers more times than I can count! Stick to 2 tablespoons filling per roll, and roll tight. If in doubt, practice with a “test” eggroll.
- Oil temperature is key: Too cool and the rolls absorb oil (greasy!), too hot and they burn. 350°F (175°C) is the sweet spot. Use a thermometer if you have one.
- Drain well: Let the fried eggrolls sit on paper towels or a wire rack. This keeps them crisp and not soggy.
- Batch frying: Fry in small batches so you don’t drop the oil temperature. I do 3-4 at a time, and keep the rest wrapped and ready.
- Freezer trick: If you want to prep ahead, freeze un-fried rolls on a tray. Fry straight from frozen, just add 1-2 minutes to cooking time.
Personal fail: Once I tried frying with oil too hot, and ended up with burnt wrappers and raw filling. Lesson learned—patience pays off. Another time, I put too much filling, and the rolls exploded in the pan (not fun to clean up). Less is more, trust me!
If you’re multitasking, mix the filling while the bacon cooks, and lay out wrappers while the oil heats. That way, everything comes together super fast. Consistency is all about prep—get your mise en place ready before you start, and the process feels smooth.
Variations & Adaptations
Eggrolls are super flexible, so don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own. Here are a few favorite twists and swaps I’ve tried, plus tips for different diets and tastes:
- Vegetarian version: Skip the bacon, add sautéed mushrooms or chopped roasted red pepper for extra flavor. Use smoked paprika for a hint of “bacon” taste.
- Spicy kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne or use pickled jalapeños for extra heat. A dash of chipotle powder in the filling is awesome too.
- Low-carb adaptation: Use thin deli turkey slices instead of eggroll wrappers, bake or air fry until crispy. Not quite the same, but still delicious!
- Gluten-free: Swap eggroll wrappers for rice paper (soak briefly then fill and roll). Fry quickly or bake for a lighter texture.
- Cheese swap: Try Monterey Jack, Colby, or even mozzarella for a creamier melt. I’ve done a mix of mozzarella and cheddar—extra gooey!
- Dipping sauce ideas: Ranch is classic, but chipotle mayo, avocado crema, or sweet chili sauce all work great.
One of my favorite spins? I added cooked chorizo instead of bacon for a smoky, spicy vibe, and swapped cheddar for pepper jack. It was gone in minutes. If you love experimenting, try different fillings—pulled chicken, black beans, or even leftover BBQ brisket. Eggrolls are forgiving, so let your cravings lead the way.
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls are best served hot and crisp, straight out of the fryer. For big parties, I keep batches warm on a baking sheet in a low oven (200°F/95°C) until serving.
Serving ideas:
- Temperature: Serve warm for melty, creamy filling and crunchy shell.
- Presentation: Slice eggrolls in half for a pretty cross-section—perfect for dipping and showing off that cheesy filling.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, extra sliced jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for color.
- Pairings: Ranch, chipotle mayo, or avocado crema are all killer dips. Pair with cold beer or lime soda for the ultimate snack.
Storage:
- Cool leftovers completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze cooked or uncooked eggrolls in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag (up to 2 months).
Reheating tips: Pop eggrolls in a 375°F (190°C) oven or air fryer for 6-8 minutes until hot and crispy. Microwaving works, but the shell gets soggy—oven is better. Flavors develop overnight, so leftovers sometimes taste even more “popper-y!”
Nutritional Information & Benefits
Let’s be honest—these bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls are all about flavor and fun. But they do pack some protein and calcium thanks to the bacon and cheese.
Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 eggroll | ~180 kcal | 7g | 14g | 11g |
Health perks: Jalapeños add vitamin C and antioxidants, and cheese brings calcium and protein. If you use low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon, you cut fat a bit.
Dietary notes: The recipe is not gluten-free unless you use special wrappers. It’s low-carb with modifications. Common allergens: dairy, gluten, and egg (in wrappers and wash).
From a wellness angle, I treat these as an indulgent treat—great for sharing, and perfect for balancing out with veggie sides. If you’re watching sodium or fat, use reduced-salt bacon and low-fat cheese. Honestly, the joy they bring is part of “mental health” for me!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the ultimate party snack, bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls are absolutely worth trying. They’re crunchy, creamy, spicy, and totally addictive—everything you want in finger food. The recipe is easy to customize, beginner-friendly, and guaranteed to turn heads at any gathering.
I love these because they always bring people together and spark conversation (“Wait, what’s in these?!”). You can swap out ingredients, crank up the heat, or keep them mild. Make them for your next party, or just a cozy night in—either way, you won’t regret it.
Give these a go, and let me know in the comments how you customize them! Share your photos, tag me, or tell me your wildest filling ideas—I’m always looking for new twists. Happy snacking, and here’s to crispy, cheesy, bacon-packed fun!
FAQs – Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls Recipe
Can I bake these eggrolls instead of frying?
Yes! Brush them lightly with oil, place on a baking sheet, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes, turning once. They’ll be a little less crisp, but still delicious.
How spicy are these eggrolls?
It depends on your jalapeños and how many seeds you leave in. For mild, remove all seeds; for extra heat, leave some in or add a pinch of cayenne.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prep and wrap the eggrolls, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before frying. You can also freeze them (uncooked or cooked) and fry straight from frozen.
What dipping sauce goes best with these?
Ranch is classic, but chipotle mayo, avocado crema, or even sweet chili sauce are all tasty options. I love mixing up a spicy ranch for extra zing.
How do I keep eggrolls crispy for a party?
Drain fried eggrolls on a wire rack, keep them warm in a 200°F (95°C) oven, and serve promptly. Avoid covering tightly, which traps steam and softens the crust.
Pin This Recipe!
Bacon Jalapeño Popper Eggrolls
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 eggrolls 1x
Description
Crispy eggrolls filled with creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and smoky bacon—these party snacks are a crowd-pleaser and disappear fast at any gathering. Easy to make, customizable, and perfect for dipping in ranch or chipotle sauce.
Ingredients
- 12 eggroll wrappers (standard 6×6-inch size)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 medium jalapeños, finely diced (about 1/2 cup; remove seeds for less heat)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying (about 3 cups)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Fry or bake bacon until crispy (8-10 minutes at 400°F if baking). Drain and chop into small pieces.
- In a large bowl, mix softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, chopped bacon, diced jalapeños, sliced green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Lay out eggroll wrappers on a clean surface. Keep covered with a damp towel to prevent drying.
- Beat egg in a small bowl for egg wash.
- Spoon about 2 tablespoons of filling onto the lower third of each wrapper. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll up tightly. Brush the edge with egg wash to seal.
- Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F. Test with a scrap wrapper—it should bubble instantly.
- Add 3-4 eggrolls at a time, seam-side down. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Use tongs to flip. Drain on paper towels.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve with ranch, chipotle mayo, or your favorite dip.
- Optional: Keep finished eggrolls warm in a 200°F oven as you fry batches.
- For air fryer: Spray each eggroll lightly with oil. Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Notes
For milder eggrolls, remove all jalapeño seeds. Use super crispy bacon for best texture. Don’t overfill wrappers—stick to 2 tablespoons filling per roll. Keep oil at 350°F for perfect crunch. Freeze un-fried rolls for make-ahead convenience. Serve hot and crispy for best results.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 eggroll
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 11
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 7
Keywords: bacon jalapeño popper eggrolls, party snack, appetizer, finger food, game day, fried eggrolls, spicy, cheesy, bacon, jalapeño, easy recipe