Cheeseburger Egg Rolls

Cheeseburger Egg Rolls are a fun and delicious twist on two all-time favorites: cheeseburgers and egg rolls. These golden, crispy treats are filled with seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and the classic flavors of a cheeseburger, all wrapped in a crunchy egg roll shell. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course, Cheeseburger Egg Rolls are versatile, easy to make, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering.

Whether you’re hosting a game day party, meal prepping for busy weekdays, or just craving something indulgent, this recipe delivers in every way. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces—think ketchup, mustard, or a zesty burger sauce—and you’ve got a dish that everyone will love. Plus, they can be fried, baked, or air-fried, making them adaptable to any cooking style.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: Combines the classic flavors of a cheeseburger in a fun, crispy wrapper.
• Customizable: Add your favorite cheeseburger toppings to make it your own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, game days, or as a family-friendly snack.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Fry, bake, or air-fry for equally delicious results.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble in advance and cook when needed.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 12 egg rolls
• Serving Size: 2 egg rolls

Nutritional Information (per serving of 2 egg rolls)

• Calories: 380
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (85/15 recommended)
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or American cheese, chopped)
• 1/2 cup diced dill pickles
• 2 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Egg Rolls:

• 12 egg roll wrappers (available in most grocery stores)
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing the wrappers)
• Oil for frying (vegetable, canola, or peanut oil)

For Dipping Sauces:

• Ketchup
• Mustard
• Burger sauce (see optional recipe below)

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cheeseburger Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Add the diced onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until softened.
4. Stir in the ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
6. Once cooled, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced pickles. The cheese will begin to melt slightly, binding the mixture together.

Step 2: Assemble the Egg Rolls

1. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a clean surface with one corner pointing toward you (like a diamond shape).
2. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the cheeseburger filling into the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, then fold in the two side corners to create an envelope shape. Roll tightly toward the top corner, sealing the edge with a brush of beaten egg.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.

Step 3: Fry the Egg Rolls

1. Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pot to 350°F. Use a thermometer for accuracy.
2. Fry 3-4 egg rolls at a time, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the cooked egg rolls to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Arrange the egg rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a greased wire rack.
3. Spray the egg rolls lightly with cooking spray.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Air-Frying:

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F.
2. Place the egg rolls in a single layer in the basket, leaving space between them.
3. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
4. Air-fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and golden.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve the cheeseburger egg rolls warm with dipping sauces on the side.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley or sprinkle with sesame seeds for a fun burger-inspired touch.

Ingredient Background

Ground Beef: The star of the filling, ground beef delivers the savory, meaty flavor of a cheeseburger. You can substitute with ground turkey or plant-based ground meat for dietary preferences.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, creamy element that mimics the melted cheese on a burger. American cheese is also a classic option.
Pickles: Provide a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese.
Egg Roll Wrappers: Found in the refrigerated section of most grocery stores, these wrappers fry up crispy and golden, encasing the filling perfectly.

Technique Tips

• Seal Tightly: Make sure to seal the edges of the wrapper securely with beaten egg to prevent leaks during cooking.
• Cool the Filling: Let the filling cool slightly before assembling to avoid tearing the wrappers.
• Don’t Overfill: Overstuffed egg rolls can burst open during frying. Stick to about 2-3 tablespoons of filling per wrapper.
• Monitor Oil Temperature: Keep the oil at a consistent 350°F for even frying. Too hot, and the wrappers may burn; too cool, and they’ll absorb excess oil.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Mini Cheeseburger Bites: Cut the egg rolls in half or thirds and serve as bite-sized appetizers with toothpicks.
• Deconstructed Bowl: Serve the filling over a bed of lettuce or rice for a deconstructed burger bowl.
• Cheeseburger Spring Rolls: Use rice paper wrappers for a lighter, Asian-inspired version.
• Breakfast Egg Rolls: Add scrambled eggs and cooked bacon to the filling for a breakfast twist.

Additional Tips for Success

• Make Ahead: Assemble the egg rolls in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before frying.
• Freeze for Later: Lay uncooked egg rolls on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
• Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack, Swiss, or smoked Gouda for unique flavors.
• Add Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for added texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Bacon Cheeseburger Egg Rolls: Add crispy crumbled bacon to the filling for an extra smoky, savory twist.
• Spicy Cheeseburger Egg Rolls: Mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
• Veggie Cheeseburger Egg Rolls: Use plant-based ground meat and add diced zucchini, carrots, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Double Cheese Egg Rolls: Use two types of cheese, such as cheddar and mozzarella, for a gooier, cheesier filling.

Freezing and Storage

To Store: Refrigerate leftover cooked egg rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Freeze uncooked or cooked egg rolls for up to 3 months. For uncooked, fry or bake directly from frozen. For cooked, reheat in an oven or air fryer.
To Reheat: Reheat cooked egg rolls in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Bake or Air-Fry: Skip deep frying for a lower-calorie version that’s still crispy and delicious.
• Lean Meat: Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter filling.
• Whole Grain Wrappers: Opt for whole-grain egg roll wrappers if available.
• Add Greens: Stir chopped spinach or kale into the filling for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day Spread: Pair with sliders, wings, and nachos for the ultimate party menu.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring a tray of egg rolls with a variety of dipping sauces to impress the crowd.
• Family Dinner: Serve alongside a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Snack Platter: Arrange with other finger foods like mozzarella sticks, potato skins, and onion rings for a fun snack platter.

Special Equipment

• Deep Fry Thermometer: Ensures precise oil temperature for perfect frying.
• Pastry Brush: Makes sealing the wrappers with beaten egg easy and mess-free.
• Nonstick Skillet: Helps prevent sticking and makes cooking the filling a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different protein?
A: Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat are great alternatives.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free egg roll wrappers or substitute with rice paper wrappers. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q: What dipping sauces go well with these egg rolls?
A: Ketchup, mustard, burger sauce, ranch dressing, or even barbecue sauce are excellent options.

Q: Can I freeze them after cooking?
A: Yes, cooked egg rolls can be frozen and reheated in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

Q: How do I keep the wrappers from drying out?
A: Cover unused wrappers with a damp towel while assembling to keep them pliable.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Cheddar, American, or any good melting cheese like mozzarella or Monterey Jack works beautifully.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger Egg Rolls are a creative and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of a classic cheeseburger in a crispy, handheld package. With their crunchy shells and savory, cheesy filling, these egg rolls are perfect for any occasion. Whether fried, baked, or air-fried, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and watch them disappear! Try this recipe today for an unforgettable snack or appetizer!

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