Crispy, cheesy, spicy, and utterly addictive—these mini egg rolls are everything you love about jalapeño poppers in a fun, handheld bite!
If you love jalapeño poppers, you’re going to flip for these Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls. They combine the creamy heat of a traditional popper with the satisfying crunch of a golden egg roll shell. Packed with cream cheese, cheddar, smoky bacon, and diced jalapeños, each bite is bold, flavorful, and totally snack-worthy.
Perfect for parties, game day, or just a fun appetizer, these mini egg rolls are easy to make and even easier to devour.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Creamy + crunchy + spicy = perfection
- ✅ Make ahead and freezer-friendly
- ✅ Easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins
- ✅ Can be fried, baked, or air-fried
- ✅ Ideal for parties, potlucks, or game nights
Ingredients Breakdown
🧀 Cream Cheese & Cheddar
These two cheeses create the ultimate rich and melty filling. The cream cheese gives that signature smooth texture, while the cheddar brings a sharp, savory bite.
Tip: Let your cream cheese come to room temp—it makes mixing much easier.
🌶 Jalapeños
Fresh jalapeños bring the heat! You can control the spice by removing the seeds and ribs. Want it milder? Swap in bell peppers or poblanos.
🥓 Bacon Bits
Smoky, salty bacon balances the richness of the cheese and the heat of the peppers. You can use store-bought bacon bits for convenience or cook and crumble your own for more flavor.
🥟 Egg Roll Wrappers
These crispy shells are the perfect vehicle for the filling. Want a bite-sized version? Use wonton wrappers instead.
🧂 Spices
Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper provide simple, savory seasoning without overpowering the bold flavors of the cheese and jalapeños.
How to Make Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls
🔹 Step 1: Make the Filling
In a bowl, stir together:
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- 4 jalapeños, seeded and finely diced
- ½ cup bacon bits
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Mix until fully combined and creamy.
🔹 Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
- Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface like a diamond.
- Place about 1 tablespoon of filling in the center.
- Wet the edges of the wrapper with water.
- Fold the bottom corner up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly.
- Seal the top corner with a bit more water.
- Repeat with remaining filling and wrappers.
🔹 Step 3: Fry, Bake, or Air Fry
Fry Method:
- Heat 1–2 inches of oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep skillet.
- Fry egg rolls in batches for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Drain on paper towels.
Bake Method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly brush or spray with oil.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
Air Fry Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Lightly spray egg rolls with oil and air fry for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
🔹 Step 4: Serve and Dip
Let them cool slightly before serving. Then dip, dunk, or drizzle with:
- Ranch dressing
- Sour cream
- Spicy aioli (mayo + sriracha + lime)
- Chipotle mayo
- Sweet chili sauce
Dipping Sauce Ideas
Try pairing these egg rolls with bold and creamy dips:
- Ranch – cools down the heat
- Sour Cream – adds tangy creaminess
- Sriracha Aioli – spicy and smooth
- BBQ Sauce – smoky and sweet
- Homemade Herb Dip – Greek yogurt + dill + garlic powder
Make It Your Own
Add-Ins & Swaps:
- 🌽 Corn kernels – for a touch of sweetness
- 🧅 Green onions – fresh and zesty
- 🐔 Cooked chicken – adds protein
- 🧀 Pepper jack cheese – for a spicier, melty twist
- 🌿 Cilantro or parsley – for a herby finish
Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips
To Freeze (Uncooked):
- Assemble egg rolls
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet
- Transfer to a freezer bag
- Cook from frozen—just add 1–2 extra minutes to frying or baking time
To Reheat (Cooked):
- Bake at 350°F for 8–10 minutes
- Or re-crisp in the air fryer at 375°F for 5 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make them ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble them ahead and freeze until ready to cook. Cook from frozen—no need to thaw.
What can I use instead of jalapeños?
Bell peppers or poblanos are great for a milder version.
Can I bake them instead of frying?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes. Don’t forget to spray or brush with oil for that crispy finish.
What’s the best dip?
Ranch is a classic, but spicy mayo, chipotle sauce, or sour cream work great too.
Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls
By Christophe
🧀 Spicy, creamy, crispy, and totally crave-worthy—these mini egg rolls are perfect for any crowd!
📝 Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 jalapeños, seeded and diced
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Vegetable oil for frying
👨🍳 Instructions
- Mix filling ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
- Assemble egg rolls with 1 tbsp filling each. Roll tightly and seal with water.
- Fry at 350°F for 2–3 minutes per side, or bake/air fry as noted above.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Final Thoughts
Mini Jalapeño Popper Egg Rolls are the ultimate party snack—crispy, cheesy, spicy, and endlessly customizable. Whether you fry, bake, or air-fry them, they’re always a hit. Try them once, and they just might become your new go-to appetizer!