Let’s face it, cheeseburgers are a staple in the American diet, but sometimes you crave something with a bit more crunch. That’s where these cheeseburger egg rolls come in, combining all the flavors you love in a fun, finger-friendly format.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of ground beef, cheese, and classic burger condiments wrapped in a crispy egg roll shell is irresistible.
- Frying the egg rolls gives them a perfect golden crunch, while baking is a great lighter option.
- They’re versatile! Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or even a main dish with a side of fries.
- Easy to make ahead and freeze, so you can have a quick snack or meal ready to go.
- Kids and adults alike will love the fun twist on a traditional cheeseburger.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced onions
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tbsp mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 12 egg roll wrappers
- Oil for frying
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush
- Deep fryer or large pot for frying
- Paper towels
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Add the onions, ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls
Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with a corner pointing towards you. Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Use a little water to seal the top corner. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls
Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 375°F. Fry the egg rolls in batches, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the cheeseburger egg rolls hot with your favorite dipping sauces. They’re best enjoyed immediately but can be kept warm in a 200°F oven if needed.
Tips and Tricks
For a lighter version, you can bake the egg rolls at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden. Make sure to brush them with a little oil to help them crisp up. If you’re making these ahead, freeze them before frying and cook from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. For an extra flavor boost, try adding some diced pickles or bacon bits to the filling.
Recipe Variations
- Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Use different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- For a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute or lentils as the base.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or a spicy mayo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these egg rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the egg rolls and keep them in the refrigerator for a few hours before frying. Or, freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be fried directly from frozen, just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover egg rolls?
To maintain their crispiness, reheat the egg rolls in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter version. Brush the egg rolls with a little oil and bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until they’re crispy and golden.
Summary
These cheeseburger egg rolls are a fun and delicious twist on the classic burger, perfect for any occasion. With a crispy exterior and a flavorful, cheesy filling, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone.